usurper

to usurp; to seize unlawfully

verb ew-zoor-PEH Rare

Origin: Latin usurpare 'to seize for use'.

Usage Note

Usurper typically collocates with power, a title, or a throne: usurper le pouvoir. The noun usurpateur/usurpatrice describes the person who seizes what is not rightfully theirs. The phrase usurper une réputation means to claim credit one does not deserve.

Examples

"Il a tenté d'usurper le trône du roi."

Natural Translation

He tried to usurp the king's throne.

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