Overthrow

/ˈoʊvərˌθroʊ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
the act of overthrowing; a removal from power or authority
The overthrow of the dictator led to years of civil unrest.
a complete defeat or destruction
The team's overthrow in the championship stunned their loyal fans.
verb
to remove from power or authority, especially by force
The military coup aimed to overthrow the existing government.
to defeat or destroy completely; to bring down
The rebels worked tirelessly to overthrow the oppressive regime.
to throw excessively, especially over a target
The pitcher often overthrows, causing the ball to go beyond the catcher.

Etymology

Middle English 'overthrowen', from Old English 'oferscēotan' (to shoot over).

Common Phrases and Expressions

overthrow the government
To remove a government, especially through rebellion or revolution.
overthrow of power
The act of removing existing leadership or authority.
overthrow a regime
To oust or defeat a particular system of governance.

Related Words

revolution
A forceful overthrow of a government or social order.
coup
A sudden and illegal seizure of power from a government.

Slang Meanings

To take down
We're planning to take down the man at the top.
To knock off
He wants to knock off the current leadership.