usurp
UK: juːˈzɜːp | US: juːˈzɜːrp
vt. to seize or take control of (a position, power, or right) illegally or by force
vt. to encroach or infringe upon something unjustly
The word usurp traces back to Latin ūsūrpāre, meaning "to seize for use." It originally blended ūsus (use) and rapere (to grab), reflecting the act of taking something (e.g., power or rights) by force for one’s own use. Over time, it narrowed to specifically denote illegal or unjust seizure, often in political or authoritative contexts.
The general attempted to usurp the throne from the rightful king.
Critics accused the company of trying to usurp control of the market.
No one should usurp the authority granted to elected officials.
The new law was seen as an effort to usurp individual freedoms.
He was punished for trying to usurp his colleague’s responsibilities.