Meaning & Definition of word "Overthrow"
to
Overthrow
/ˈoʊvərˌθroʊ/
noun:
- 1. the act of overthrowing; a removal from power or authority
- Example: The overthrow of the dictator led to years of civil unrest.
- 2. a complete defeat or destruction
- Example: The team's overthrow in the championship stunned their loyal fans.
verb:
- 1. to remove from power or authority, especially by force
- Example: The military coup aimed to overthrow the existing government.
- 2. to defeat or destroy completely; to bring down
- Example: The rebels worked tirelessly to overthrow the oppressive regime.
- 3. to throw excessively, especially over a target
- Example: 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 of overthrow
Meaning: To take down
Example Sentence: We're planning to take down the man at the top.
Meaning: To knock off
Example Sentence: He wants to knock off the current leadership.