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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.

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

Some advocates feared it would usurp cities’ zoning authority.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 26, 2025

He drags Arthur into a war against Lancelot that fatally weakens the kingdom and allows Mordred to usurp the throne.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 26, 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

“If I do not usurp myself, I am.”

From "Brave New World" by Aldous Huxley

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