usurp — to take someone's position of power illegally or by force
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to take someone's position of power illegally or by force
Pronunciation (IPA): /juˈzɜːrp/
Example Sentences
- The ambitious duke plotted to usurp the crown from his own brother.
- My cat has completely usurped my spot on the couch and refuses to move.
- The new manager tried to usurp all decision-making authority from the team leader.
usurp
VERB[/juˈzɜːrp/]
to take someone's position of power illegally or by force

The ambitious duke tries to usurp the throne while the young king sleeps.

Usurp the throne, then slurp and burp!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'usurpare', meaning to take into use or seize, derived from 'usus' (use) and 'rapere' (to seize or take). The word entered English through Old French in the 14th century.
Breakdown
Latin 'usus' (use) + 'rapere' (seize) = usurpare (to seize for use) → usurp
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The ambitious duke plotted to usurp the crown from his own brother.”
“My cat has completely usurped my spot on the couch and refuses to move.”
“The new manager tried to usurp all decision-making authority from the team leader.”
“Social media influencers are slowly usurping traditional celebrities' fame.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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