Definitions for: Usurpation


[n] wrongfully seizing and holding (an office or powers) by force (especially the seizure of a throne or supreme authority); "a succession of generals who ruled by usurpation"
[n] entry to another's property without right or permission



Webster (1913) Definition: U`sur*pa"tion, n. [L. usurpatio ? making use,
usurpation: cf. F. usurpation.]
1. The act of usurping, or of seizing and enjoying; an
authorized, arbitrary assumption and exercise of power,
especially an infringing on the rights of others;
specifically, the illegal seizure of sovereign power; --
commonly used with of, also used with on or upon; as, the
usurpation of a throne; the usurpation of the supreme
power.



He contrived their destruction, with the usurpation of the
regal dignity upon him. --Sir T. More.

A law [of a State] which is a usurpation upon the general
government. --O.
Ellsworth.

Manifest usurpation on the rights of other States. --D.
Webster.

Note: Usurpation, in a peculiar sense, formerly denoted the
absolute ouster and dispossession of the patron of a
church, by a stranger presenting a clerk to a vacant
benefice, who us thereupon admitted and instituted.

2. Use; usage; custom. [Obs.] --Bp. Pearson.

Synonyms: encroachment, intrusion, trespass, violation

See Also: actus reus, capture, gaining control, inroad, misconduct, seizure, wrongdoing, wrongful conduct

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