coup (C1)

noun

Pronunciation: /kuː/

Definition

A sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from a government.

Examples

• The military junta was accused of orchestrating a coup.

• The president narrowly escaped the coup attempt.

• A successful coup can lead to widespread instability.

How to Use coup

coup d'état (collocation)

A sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from a government. — "The dictator was overthrown in a swift coup d'état."

Synonyms of coup

Words with a similar meaning to coup:

• takeover
• rebellion
• insurrection
• overthrow

Antonyms of coup

Words with the opposite meaning to coup:

• consolidation
• stability

Browse the full Anaversity dictionary