Definitions

usurped

[yoo-surpt, -zurpt] / yuˈsɜrpt, -ˈzɜrpt /

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.

Ultimately, society’s ingrained fear of missing out on making money will be usurped by the fear of losing money.

From Barron's • Apr. 15, 2026

The pre-Virgilian sources suggest that Dido’s brother, Pygmalion, killed her husband and usurped the throne.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 11, 2026

Spain's Alcaraz finally usurped his rival at the top of the rankings in September, ending Sinner's 65-week stint by winning the final Grand Slam of 2025 in New York.

From BBC • Nov. 8, 2025

But the mothering role has been usurped by Roman’s mother, Tara, with whom the couple lives in Adamsville, N.Y., a small town undergoing a post-COVID gentrification.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 18, 2024

It was signs like this that usurped my self-esteem and my hope.

From "March Forward, Girl" by Melba Pattillo Beals