Definitions

overthrow

[oh-ver-throh, oh-ver-throh] / ˌoʊ vərˈθroʊ, ˈoʊ vərˌθroʊ /

VERB

defeat, destroy

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abolish conquer crush depose dethrone eradicate oust overcome overrun overturn put an end to raze subdue subvert topple unseat vanquish

STRONG

beat demolish exterminate level liquidate overpower overwhelm purge ruin subjugate terminate tip tumble upend upset

WEAK

bring down bring to ruin do away with knock down knock over

Antonyms

STRONGEST

establish fail institute lose release retreat surrender uphold yield

STRONG

build construct create hold keep straighten

WEAK

give in

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.

He said that since Gaddafi's overthrow, sectors such as education and healthcare as well as basic needs have been "completely neglected".

From Barron's • May 26, 2026

Would things have changed if Harry Sheridan was able to keep hold of the ball as he fell towards the line, or if Tom Stewart did not overthrow on his line-out?

From BBC • May 22, 2026

It does not overthrow Einstein’s relativity or quantum physics — it completes them.

From Science Daily • May 22, 2026

The 86-year-old was a key figure in the movement that led to the overthrow of the shah in 1979 and succeeded revolutionary leader Ruhollah Khomeini as supreme leader in 1989.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 1, 2026

I remember reading a passage in a book dealing with old Russia which said: “We must be ready to make endless sacrifices if we are to be able to overthrow the Czar.”

From "Native Son" by Richard Wright

Vocabulary lists containing overthrow

100 SAT words Beginning with "O"

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"Death, be not proud" by John Donne

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Catching Fire

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!