Langimage
English

overthrow

|o-ver-throw|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˌoʊvərˈθroʊ/

🇬🇧

/ˌəʊvəˈθrəʊ/

remove from power

Etymology
Etymology Information

'overthrow' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'oferþrowan,' where 'ofer-' meant 'over' and 'þrowan' meant 'to throw.'

Historical Evolution

'oferþrowan' transformed into the Middle English word 'overthrowen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'overthrow.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to throw over or overturn,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to remove from power.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the act of removing someone from power by force.

The overthrow of the dictator was celebrated by the citizens.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to remove forcibly from power or position.

The rebels aimed to overthrow the government.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45