Usurpation
[,juːzɜː'peɪʃən] or [,jʊzɚ'peʃən]
Definition
(noun.) wrongfully seizing and holding (an office or powers) by force (especially the seizure of a throne or supreme authority); 'a succession of generals who ruled by usurpation'.
Checker: Michelle--From WordNet
Definition
(n.) The act of usurping, or of seizing and enjoying; an authorized, arbitrary assumption and exercise of power, especially an infringing on the rights of others; specifically, the illegal seizure of sovereign power; -- commonly used with of, also used with on or upon; as, the usurpation of a throne; the usurpation of the supreme power.
(n.) Use; usage; custom.
Editor: Stephen
Synonyms and Synonymous
n. Seizure, assumption.
Inputed by Jill
Examples
- Be it so, said the King; but for thine own sake tax me not with usurpation now. Walter Scott. Ivanhoe.
- This usurpation, it is well known, he afterwards effected. Walter Scott. Ivanhoe.
- I will appeal to Rome against thee, said the Grand Master, for usurpation on the immunities and privileges of our Order. Walter Scott. Ivanhoe.
- Should he oppose any of their pretensions or usurpations, the danger is equally great. Adam Smith. An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations.
Checked by Blanchard