Meaning & Definition of Usurp in English

1. Seize and take control without authority and possibly with force

• Take as one's right or possession

• "He assumed to himself the right to fill all positions in the town"

• "He usurped my rights"

• "She seized control of the throne after her husband died"

2. Take the place of

• "Gloom had usurped mirth at the party after the news of the terrorist act broke"