transitive verb
Definition 1
In the markets, assume, adopt, purchase (position) on perceived or known prospects.
Source: Invertext, from Concise Oxford Dictionary
Context: This [the fear of diluting their percentage holdings] explains the rally in Petrobras's share price in the past week as shareholders took positions to qualify for their allocation under the issue's rules.
Source: Financial Times 15/09/2010 (Jonathan Wheatley in São Paulo)
Definition 2
Lay hold of (usually with the hands), grasp.
Source: Invertext, from Concise Oxford Dictionary.
Context: Each player takes a card in turn, going counterclockwise around the table until all the cards have been drawn.
Source: ehow.com 17/09/2010
Definition 3
Make use of, avail oneself of a means of transport.
Source: Invertext, from Concise Oxford Dictionary
Context: A few weeks ago, slipping off from work at 4pm, I took the train from Waterloo to Windsor Riverside & Eton.
Source: Financial Times 10/07/2010 (Robin Oakley)
Definition 4
Make use of, ingest (pills, remedies, etc.).
Source: Invertext, from Concise Oxford Dictionary
Context: Trevor Jones, a former head of the ABPI and director of several pharmaceutical companies, said the varied colours and shapes of different generic drugs could confuse patients and reduce their ability to take pills as prescribed.
Source: Financial Times 11/01/2010 (Andrew Jack)
Definition 5
Seize, capture.
Source: Concise Oxford Dictionary
Context: Once the Russians, under Kutuzov, retreated, Napoleon took Moscow.
Source: napoleon-series.org