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overthrow

verb

/ˌoʊ vərˈθroʊ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of overthrow

To forcefully remove or topple a person or a group from a position of power, authority, or control.
"The revolutionaries aimed to overthrow the monarchy."

Detailed meaning of overthrow

It involves the deliberate and often violent act of displacing a government, regime, or ruling entity. When a person or a collective undertakes an overthrow, they aim to dismantle the existing power structure and replace it with an alternative system. Overthrowing typically involves organizing and executing a rebellion, revolution, or coup d'état, often with the goal of bringing about political, social, or ideological change. The act of overthrowing can involve various tactics such as protests, uprisings, armed conflict, or political maneuvering. It signifies a dramatic shift in the balance of power and may result in significant societal or geopolitical consequences.

Example sentences containing overthrow

1. They plotted to overthrow the corrupt government.
2. The rebellion failed to overthrow the oppressive regime.
3. The general led a coup to overthrow the dictator.
4. The citizens were determined to overthrow the unjust laws.
5. The king's policies led to an attempt to overthrow his rule.
6. They accused him of conspiring to overthrow the government.

History and etymology of overthrow

The verb 'overthrow' has a clear etymology that reflects its meaning. It combines the prefix 'over,' which implies a sense of reversal or turning something upside down, with the word 'throw,' derived from the Old English 'þrawan,' meaning to twist, turn, or hurl. When these elements are combined, 'overthrow' essentially conveys the idea of forcefully turning or twisting the position of power, authority, or control upside down or in the opposite direction. This etymology vividly captures the concept of forcibly removing or toppling a person or a group from a position of authority, making it a fitting term to describe acts of rebellion or revolution aimed at overthrowing established leadership.

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Further usage examples of overthrow

1. The invaders tried to overthrow the city’s defenses.
2. His ambition was to overthrow the existing power structure.
3. Foreign interference aimed to overthrow the newly established democracy.
4. The storm was so strong it could overthrow trees.
5. She was accused of using magic to overthrow the queen in the fantasy novel.
6. The sports team made a surprising comeback to overthrow their opponents.
7. The labor union sought to overthrow the management’s unfair policies.
8. His innovative ideas helped to overthrow old beliefs in science.
9. The rebels planned to overthrow the oppressive regime.
10. The citizens united to overthrow the corrupt government.
11. They conspired to overthrow the dictator's rule.
12. The revolutionaries aimed to overthrow the monarchy.
13. The coup attempt failed to overthrow the president.
14. The opposition party sought to overthrow the ruling party.
15. The military coup succeeded in overthrowing the regime.
16. The uprising was a turning point in their efforts to overthrow.
17. The rebels managed to overthrow the oppressive regime.
18. The people's protests grew in strength to overthrow the leader.
19. They hoped to overthrow the oppressive economic system.
20. The plot to overthrow the council was uncovered.
21. The citizens rallied together to overthrow the corrupt mayor.
22. The generals conspired to overthrow the elected government.
23. The revolutionaries made a bold attempt to overthrow the king.
24. The rebels succeeded in their mission to overthrow the dictator.
25. The overthrow of the ruling party marked a historic moment.
26. The revolution was a massive effort to overthrow the monarchy.
27. The rebels' determination to overthrow was unwavering.
28. The failed attempt to overthrow the president had consequences.

Prefix over-, Adversities and Complications, Turmoil and Treachery, Ravage and Ruin, Ending and Conclusion, Hostility and Brutality, Strength and Resilience, Conflict and Conquest

depose,dislodge,oust,supplant,topple,usurp

defeat,dethrone,overturn,subvert,tumble,unseat