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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.

The parties initially weren’t divided over Korea, and Truman didn’t usurp the legislative branch’s power to authorize war.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 10, 2026

Nancy suffered a fifth defeat in seven games since taking charge of the Scottish champions as Celtic missed the chance to usurp Hearts at the top of the table.

From Barron's • Dec. 30, 2025

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 18, 2025

Defending champion Littler, who will usurp Luke Humphries at the top of the rankings if he reaches the final in Wolverhampton, averaged 105.18 in a 16-12 victory.

From BBC • Nov. 15, 2025

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

From "Insurgent" by Veronica Roth

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.