Coup - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A coup is the sudden, illegal seizure of power from a government, typically by a small group, often military or political leaders. It usually involves force or threats.
Definition:
A sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from a government.
Synonyms:
takeover, overthrow, rebellion, revolt
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
election, democracy
Common Collocations:
military coup, coup attempt, staged coup, failed coup
Derivatives:
coups, couped (rare)
Usage Tips:
Use "coup" for a sudden political takeover; avoid for minor changes or legal transitions.
Common Phrases:
coup d'état, coup de grâce, palace coup
Etymology:
From French "coup," meaning "blow" or "stroke," originally from Latin "colaphus" (a blow).
Examples:
- 1. The generals planned a coup to overthrow the government.
- 2. The failed coup left the country in chaos.
- 3. She described the boardroom shakeup as a corporate coup.
- 4. The king survived an assassination attempt during the coup.