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Showing results for usurp. Search instead for usurpin.
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.

Kingsbury, the Olympic champion from Pyeongchang 2018, produced a storming run to usurp the high-flying Horishima and take top spot with just Cooper to go.

From Barron's • Feb. 12, 2026

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 18, 2025

Oh please, I said, he has zero history of fearing to usurp judicial authority.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 20, 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

Now, a god cannot usurp another god’s symbol of power directly—that is forbidden by the most ancient of divine laws.

From "The Lightning Thief" by Rick Riordan

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