coup
|coup|
C1
/kuː/
sudden power shift
Etymology
Etymology Information
'coup' originates from French, specifically the word 'coup,' where 'coup' meant 'blow' or 'strike.'
Historical Evolution
'coup' changed from the Old French word 'colp' and eventually became the modern English word 'coup.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'a blow or strike,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'a sudden seizure of power' and 'a notable success.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from a government.
The military staged a coup to overthrow the government.
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Antonyms
Noun 2
a notable or successful stroke or move.
Landing that contract was a real coup for the company.
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Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35