Overthrew: meaning, definitions and examples

🛡️
Add to dictionary

overthrew

 

[ 'oʊvərˌθruː ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

past action

The term 'overthrew' is the simple past tense of the verb 'overthrow'. It refers to the act of removing someone from power, typically by force or rebellion. In a historical context, it often describes coups, revolutions, or military actions taken to dismantle government authority. The term implies a significant change in leadership or control, often resulting in disorder. It can also be used metaphorically to describe defeating or surpassing a previous state, such as in competitions.

Synonyms

deposed, ousted, overthrown, toppled

Examples of usage

  • They overthrew the dictator in a dramatic uprising.
  • The rebels successfully overthrew the corrupt regime.
  • He overthrew his own previous record in the race.
  • In 1776, American colonists overthrew British authority.

Translations

Translations of the word "overthrew" in other languages:

🇵🇹 derrubou

🇮🇳 गिरा दिया

🇩🇪 stürzte um

🇮🇩 menggulingkan

🇺🇦 повалив

🇵🇱 obalił

🇯🇵 倒した

🇫🇷 renversé

🇪🇸 derrocó

🇹🇷 devirdi

🇰🇷 전복했다

🇸🇦 أطاح

🇨🇿 svrhli

🇸🇰 zvrhli

🇨🇳 推翻了

🇸🇮 srušil

🇮🇸 rústa

🇰🇿 құлатты

🇬🇪 გადაყარა

🇦🇿 devirdi

🇲🇽 derrocó

Word origin

The word 'overthrow' has its origins in the Old English word 'oferþrawan', which means to throw over or to turn upside down. It is composed of the prefix 'over-' meaning above or across, and the verb 'throw', which comes from the Proto-Germanic '*thrawan', meaning to twist or to throw. Historically, the usage of 'overthrow' has been associated with various political events, especially those involving revolutions where established authorities are forcibly removed. The concept of overthrowing has been prevalent in human history, reflecting struggles for power, freedom, and governance. Over time, the word has also evolved to encompass broader implications, signaling a shift or change in circumstance or state beyond just political removal.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,593, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.