topple

[top-uhl]

verb (used without object)

toppled, toppling 

1. to fall forward, as from having too heavy a top; pitch; tumble down.

2. to lean over or jut, as if threatening to fall.

verb (used with object)

toppled, toppling 

1. to cause to topple.

2. to overthrow, as from a position of authority.

   to topple the king.

   Synonyms: overpower, overcome, vanquish, defeat

topple

/ ˈtɒpəl /

verb

1. to tip over or cause to tip over, esp from a height

2. (intr) to lean precariously or totter

3. (tr) to overthrow; oust

Other Word Forms

• untoppled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of topple¹

1535–45; earlier top to tilt, topple ( tope ¹ ) + -le

Word History and Origins

Origin of topple¹

C16: frequentative of _top ¹ (verb)

Example Sentences

From Nepal to Peru, Morocco and Madagascar, brandishing the symbol of a skull and crossbones in a straw hat, Gen Z protests across the world stood up to authorities in 2025, even toppling two governments.

Read more on Barron's

Footage showed sheets of rain pouring from roofs during the peak of the cyclone, while huge trees toppled into backyards and roads.

Read more on Barron's

In addition to toppling trees, the wind may cause limited power outages.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The 85-year-old Nobel Peace Prize winner was selected to lead the country after a mass uprising toppled the government last year.

Read more on Barron's

“This is not the type of thing that’s going to topple democracy,” she said.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• collapse 
• oust 
• overturn 
• plunge 
• tumble 
• unseat 
• upset