overthrow Definition
- 1remove forcibly from power
- 2defeat or vanquish (an opponent) utterly
Using overthrow: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "overthrow" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The rebels sought to overthrow the government.
Example
The champion was overthrown by a newcomer.
Example
The company's CEO was overthrown in a boardroom coup.
Example
The revolutionaries succeeded in overthrowing the monarchy.
overthrow Synonyms and Antonyms
Idioms Using overthrow
throw/turn something/someone over
to abandon or reject something or someone
Example
After years of neglect, he finally decided to throw over his old habits and start anew.
Example
The sudden resignation of the CEO completely overthrew the apple cart, leaving the company in disarray.
Example
The sudden influx of refugees threatened to overthrow the balance of the local economy.
Phrases with overthrow
the removal of a government from power, usually by force
Example
The overthrow of the government led to a period of political instability.
Example
The social movements aimed at the overthrow of the status quo and the establishment of a new order.
Example
The overthrow of the regime was followed by a period of chaos and uncertainty.
Origins of overthrow
from Old English 'oferþrowian', meaning 'to throw over, overturn'
Summary: overthrow in Brief
The verb 'overthrow' [ˌəʊvəˈθrəʊ] means to remove someone or something from power or to defeat them completely. It can be used in the context of political coups, sports competitions, or other situations where one side is victorious over another. Phrases like 'overthrow of the government' and 'overthrow of the status quo' denote significant changes or disruptions, while idioms like 'overthrow the apple cart' and 'overthrow the balance' suggest unintended consequences.
