overthrow
overthrow Lexical Profile
overthrow Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A removal from power or authority; the act of defeating or bringing down a ruler, government, or established institution.
"Historians studied the economic factors that contributed to the sudden overthrow of the monarchy."
A throw in which a ball is propelled too high or past its intended recipient (especially in baseball, American football, or cricket).
"The shortstop's costly overthrow allowed the runner to advance to third base."
• verb
To remove forcibly from power or authority; to bring about the downfall of a ruler, government, or established system.
"The coalition sought to overthrow the authoritarian regime and establish a constitutional democracy."
To throw a ball too high or beyond the intended receiver or target (in sports such as baseball, American football, or cricket).
"The quarterback was careful not to overthrow his wide receiver near the sideline."
To overturn, knock down, or physically upset from an upright position.
"Fierce gale winds threatened to overthrow the ancient stone monuments along the ridge."
Word Nuance & Usage
Like many English noun-verb pairs formed with a prefix, the verb 'overthrow' is pronounced with primary stress on the final syllable (o-ver-THROW), whereas the noun places primary stress on the first syllable (O-ver-throw).
• Rhymes for overthrow
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Dating back to Middle English 'overthrowen' in the 13th century, the word combines 'over-' and 'throw' (from Old English 'thrawan', meaning to twist or hurl), originally referring to physically knocking something down before acquiring its political sense of toppling a ruler.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.