# usurp

> English word · Verb · IPA /juˈsɝp/ · frequency rank #41,933

## Definitions
1. To seize power from another, usually by illegitimate means.
2. To use and assume the coat of arms of another person.
3. To take the place rightfully belonging to someone or something else.
4. To make use of.

## Etymology
From Middle English usurpen, from Old French usurper, from Latin ūsūrpō (ūsus use + rapiō seize).

## Easily confused with
- **usurped** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/usurp-vs-usurped)
- **usurper** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/usurp-vs-usurper)
- **USP** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/usp-vs-usurp)
- **user** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/user-vs-usurp)
- **USSR** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/ussr-vs-usurp)
- **usual** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/usual-vs-usurp)
- **uhuru** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/uhuru-vs-usurp)
- **unsure** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/unsure-vs-usurp)

## Common misspellings (7)
`suurp`, `usrup`, `ussurp`, `usupr`, `usurpp`, `usurrp`, `uusrp`

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/usurp