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.

But I was just trying to find a way for Jonesy and Cookie to play — we weren’t thinking about trying to usurp Johnny or anything like that.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 21, 2026

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

“Does the request of a ghost overrule the plea of a wife? How can your vow of vengeance usurp our marriage vows?”

From "Ophelia" by Lisa Klein

Vocabulary lists containing usurp

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List 3

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