Definition

1. Noun:

   • The act of removing a ruler or government from power, especially by force: "overthrow" refers to the successful removal of a ruler, regime, or institution, often through rebellion or coup.
   • A state of disturbance or upset: "overthrow" can also mean a disruption or complete change to a normal state or condition.

2. Verb:

   • To remove a ruler or government from power, especially by force: The primary meaning is to defeat and remove from authority.
   • To throw a ball beyond an intended target (in sports like baseball or cricket): This is a specific sporting usage.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:

  • The revolution led to the overthrow of the monarchy.
  • The sudden news caused a complete overthrow of her peaceful routine.

• Verb:

  • The rebels sought to overthrow the dictator.
  • The pitcher overthrew first base, allowing the runner to advance.

Advanced Usage

• "to overthrow a regime": to forcibly remove a government from power.

  • The conspiracy aimed to overthrow the military regime.

• "the overthrow of expectations": a complete reversal or disruption of what was anticipated.

  • The film's plot twist was a brilliant overthrow of audience expectations.

Variants and Related Words

• Overthrew (verb): Simple past tense of "overthrow".

  • The army overthrew the government last year.

• Overthrown (verb): Past participle of "overthrow".

  • The corrupt leader has been overthrown.

Synonyms

• Oust: To force someone out of a position of power.
• Topple: To cause to fall from power.
• Depose: To remove from office or power, especially a monarch.
• Subvert: To undermine the power and authority of an established system.

Related Phrasal Verbs

(Note: "Overthrow" itself is not commonly used in phrasal verb constructions. Its meaning is typically contained in the single word.)

Related Idioms

• "To have one's plans overthrown": To have one's intentions completely disrupted or ruined.
  • Their vacation plans were overthrown by the sudden storm.

Noun

1. the act of disturbing the mind or body
   • his carelessness could have caused an ecological upset
   • she was unprepared for this sudden overthrow of their normal way of living
2. the termination of a ruler or institution (especially by force)

Verb

1. rule against
   • The Republicans were overruled when the House voted on the bill
2. cause the downfall of; of rulers
   • The Czar was overthrown
   • subvert the ruling class