Usurper

An individual who seizes and holds power, a position, or property unlawfully or by force. This often involves displacing a legitimate ruler or rightful owner. The act of usurping implies an illegitimate claim and can be achieved through various methods, including military conquest, political manipulation, or deceit. It's a morally charged term, suggesting a violation of established order, justice, or the principles of legitimate authority. The term often applies to monarchs, political leaders, and anyone who gains control through coercion and without established legal or traditional right. The consequences can be significant, potentially leading to instability, conflict, and oppression.

Usurper meaning with examples

• Following the assassination of the king, the ambitious general declared himself regent, soon establishing himself as a usurper when he refused to relinquish power to the rightful heir. His reign was marked by brutality and fear, as he quashed any opposition to his illegitimate rule. He was eventually overthrown in a rebellion.
• The company's CEO was ousted in a boardroom coup orchestrated by a rival executive, who then installed themselves as the new leader, becoming a usurper of the existing leadership. This action caused ethical debates and the share price fell precipitously. Many employees were wary of this leadership.
• In the fantasy novel, a sorcerer attempted to become a usurper of the throne by manipulating the queen's advisors and forging documents that would legitimize his claim. His plots were eventually discovered, and he was banished. This would have caused chaos and darkness over the whole kingdom.
• During the political turmoil, a faction of the military used their strength to overthrow the democratically elected government, installing their leader as the president and thus marking him as a usurper in the eyes of the international community. Sanctions were placed and they faced international condemnation.