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.

A collection of trade groups representing banks and credit unions quickly sued, arguing it usurped banks’ rights under federal law.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 1, 2026

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

Political cartooning is a dying art, usurped by illustrations that trade intelligent ribbing for low-brow button pushing — or, equally as startling, memes that require minimal effort to make.

From Salon • Sep. 5, 2025

After being the superior McLaren driver on balance in 2024, that position was usurped by Piastri from the start of this season.

From BBC • Jun. 29, 2025

José Arcadio continued to profit from the usurped lands, the title to which was recognized by the Conservative government.

From "One Hundred Years of Solitude" by Gabriel Garcia Marquez