usurped
Took without right
Usurped is the past tense of usurp, meaning to seize power, position, or rights without authority or legal right.
The word typically applies to thrones, titles, or roles taken by force or illegitimate means: The general usurped the presidency in a coup.
It can extend to less dramatic contexts: The new software has usurped the role of traditional spreadsheets.
Gradually overstepped boundaries
- infringedBroke a rule
- appropriatedTook for one's use
- arrogatedClaimed without justification
- commandeeredSeized for official use
claimed · assumed · seized · stolen · taken · misappropriated · annexed · expropriated
Removed from power
- deposedRemoved from authority
- oustedRemoved from position
- toppledCaused to fall
- supplantedDisplaced by another
unseated · overthrown · dispossessed · expelled · conquered · vanquished · defeated · subdued
Abrupt seizure of power
- takeoverAssuming command of something
- seizureForcible taking or convulsion
- power grabAttempt to seize control
- unlawfulForbidden by statute
illegitimate · treachery · conspiracy · sedition · subversion · intrigue · clandestine · illicit
Cruel, absolute ruler
- despotRuler with absolute power
- autocratSole wielder of power
- dictatorRuler with total control
- oppressorOne who dominates cruelly
regime · despotism · tyranny · dictatorship · autocracy · absolutism · strongman · authoritarian
encroached
Gradually overstepped boundaries
- infringedBroke a rule
- appropriatedTook for one's use
- arrogatedClaimed without justification
commandeered · claimed · assumed · seized · stolen · taken · misappropriated · annexed · expropriated · preempted
dethroned
Removed from power
supplanted · unseated · overthrown · dispossessed · expelled · conquered · vanquished · defeated · subdued · overpowered
coup
Abrupt seizure of power
- takeoverAssuming command of something
- seizureForcible taking or convulsion
- power grabAttempt to seize control
unlawful · illegitimate · treachery · conspiracy · sedition · subversion · intrigue · clandestine · illicit · insurrection
tyrant
Cruel, absolute ruler
oppressor · regime · despotism · tyranny · dictatorship · autocracy · absolutism · strongman · authoritarian · totalitarian
usurpedrelinquished
Gave up possession of
surrendered · abdicated · ceded · yielded · renounced
usurpedrestored
Returned to original condition
returned · reinstated · honored · acknowledged · recognized