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.

“It will not probably take a war to overthrow the principle of the legal-tender act,” wrote Sumner, alluding to the Civil War, “but it may take a national bankruptcy.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026

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

Jen grinned as if he’d just announced the overthrow of the Government.

From "Among the Hidden" by Margaret Peterson Haddix

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!