usurp
verb (used with object)
to seize and hold (a position, office, power, etc.) by force or without legal right.
usurps
-
present tense formof usurp (3rd person singular).present tense
Used to describe things happening now or regularly.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
District Court for the Eastern District of California, argues the law usurps the NLRB’s authority “by attempting to regulate areas explicitly reserved for federal oversight.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 17, 2025
A clairvoyant slowly usurps the estate of a distinguished Viennese family by selling them her dreams.
From New York Times ● Apr. 7, 2023
They argue that it does not properly hold members of the Sackler family accountable and that it usurps states’ ability to try to do so.
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 16, 2021
Humbly, she understood that death sometimes usurps small liberties.
From Slate ● May 16, 2020
In some ways, she thinks he usurps what should be her role.
From "Drama High" by Michael Sokolove
