U·surp v. t. [imp. & p. p. Usurped p. pr. & vb. n. Usurping.] To seize, and hold in possession, by force, or without right; as, to usurp a throne; to usurp the prerogatives of the crown; to usurp power; to usurp the right of a patron is to oust or dispossess him.
Alack, thou dost usurp authority. --Shak.
Another revolution, to get rid of this illegitimate and usurped government, would of course be perfectly justifiable. --Burke.
Note: ☞ Usurp is applied to seizure and use of office, functions, powers, rights, etc.; it is not applied to common dispossession of private property.
Syn: -- To arrogate; assume; appropriate.