Seize up

usgb
verb

When a machine or part of it stops working suddenly.

My car's engine seized up because of the freezing cold.
Visual representation of "seize up" - When a machine or part of it stops working suddenly

Often appears as...

  • engine seize up
  • gearbox seize up

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "seize up"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Sudden Failure

Use 'seize up' to indicate an unexpected and complete stoppage of machinery.

Illustration for Sudden Failure
The printer seized up in the middle of printing my report.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Technical Context

'Seize up' is often used when talking about technical or mechanical problems.

Illustration for Technical Context
During the flight, the drone's motor seized up.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Always Literal

Sometimes 'seize up' is used metaphorically to describe situations that grind to a halt.

Illustration for Not Always Literal
The negotiations seized up after the disagreement.
Visual representation of the word "Seize up"

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