2 definitions found
From Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) [web1913]:
Usurp \U*surp"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Usurped}; p. pr & vb n.
{Usurping}.] [L. usurpare usurpatum to make use of enjoy,
get possession of usurp; the first part of usurpare is akin
to usus use (see {Use}, n.): cf F. usurper.]
To seize, and hold in possession, by force, or without right
as to usurp a throne; to usurp the prerogatives of the
crown; to usurp power; to usurp the right of a patron is to
oust or dispossess him
Alack, thou dost usurp authority. --Shak.
Another revolution, to get rid of this illegitimate and
usurped government, would of course be perfectly
justifiable. --Burke.
Note: Usurp is applied to seizure and use of office,
functions, powers, rights, etc.; it is not applied to
common dispossession of private property.
Syn: To arrogate; assume; appropriate.
From WordNet r 1.6 [wn]:
usurped
adj : (used especially of the rights of another) seized and held
by force; "the usurped crown sat heavy on his head"
more about usurped
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