Definitions

usurp

[yoo-surp, -zurp] / yuˈsɜrp, -ˈzɜrp /

VERB

take over

Synonyms

STRONGEST

annex preempt supplant wrest

STRONG

appropriate arrogate assume commandeer displace grab highjack seize swipe take

WEAK

accroach barge in butt in clap hands on cut out elbow in get hands on grab hold of infringe upon lay hold of muscle in squeeze in work in worm in

Antonyms

STRONG

give keep leave let go offer refuse reject release

WEAK

give in relinquish surrender

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Tuesday's latest reverse meant Celtic missed the chance to usurp Hearts at the top of the table.

From Barron's • Dec. 31, 2025

This appears to be a fraud attempt to usurp your authority as CEO.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 18, 2025

Over the decades, technology in the studio has made it possible for the vocally challenged to usurp craftsmanship and talent.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 14, 2025

“Right. So how are you going to usurp Erudite?”

From "Insurgent" by Veronica Roth

Vocabulary lists containing usurp

The Vocabulary.com Top 1000

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100 Words Every High School Graduate Should Know

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List 3

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