Usurp
To seize power, control, or a position by force or without legal right; to replace someone by coercive or illicit means.
verbUsurp
To seize power, control, or a position by force or without legal right; to replace someone by coercive or illicit means.
verbImagine This
Imagine a royal council where a clever pretender slips a forged charter to the king, rises, and places the crown on his own head while the rightful monarch is distracted by a speech; the crowd gasps as the usurper consolidates his grip on the throne.
Sounds Like
you-SURP
Looks Like
resembles 'usury' or 'surge' in form; shares the prefix 'usur-'
Remember This
Usurpation involves illegitimate seizure of power. It is often used in political or institutional contexts (throne, office, role) and implies wrongful authority.
Other Forms
Connect With
seize, take over, supplant, overthrow, appropriate
Note
Usurp is not used for legitimate or voluntary transfers of power. Distinguish from 'occupy' or 'assume' where authority is rightful or authorized; 'usurp' carries strong connotations of wrongdoing.