usurps - Meaning, Image, Examples & Etymology - Learn English Visually

usurps

|u-surp|

🇺🇸

/juːˈzɝp/

🇬🇧

/juːˈzɜːp/

(usurp)

illegally seize power

Base Form	Present	3rd Person Sing.	Past	Past Participle	Present Participle	Noun	Noun
usurp	usurps	usurps	usurped	usurped	usurping	usurpers	usurpation

Etymology

Etymology Information

'usurp' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'usurpare', where 'usus' meant 'use' and 'rapere' meant 'to seize'.

Historical Evolution

'usurp' changed from Old French word 'usurper' and Middle English 'usurpen', and eventually became the modern English word 'usurp'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to take for use', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to seize power or position unlawfully'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to take (a position, power, or rights) illegally or by force; to seize and hold in possession without legal authority.

The general usurps the throne while the king is ill.

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Antonyms

Verb 2

to supplant or take over a role, function, or authority (often figurative), especially in a way that displaces the legitimate holder.

Ambition usurps common sense in his decisions.

Synonyms

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Examples

Last updated: 2025/12/26 18:28