Difference between revisions of "Usurper"
From Nordan Symposia
Jump to navigationJump to search (Created page with 'File:lighterstill.jpgright|frame ==Origin== [http://nordan.daynal.org/wiki/index.php?title=English#ca._1100-1500_.09THE_MIDDLE_ENGLISH_PERIOD Middle E...') |
m (moved Usurpation to Usurper) |
(No difference)
|
Revision as of 19:29, 3 May 2011
Origin
Middle English, from Anglo-French usorper, from Latin usurpare to take possession of without legal claim, from usu (abl. of usus use) + rapere to seize
Definitions
- 1a : to seize and hold (as office, place, or powers) in possession by force or without right <usurp a throne>
- 2: to take the place of by or as if by force : supplant <must not let stock responses based on inherited prejudice usurp careful judgment>
Description
Usurper (lat. usurpare = to seize for use, to use) is a derogatory term used to describe either an illegitimate or controversial claimant to the power; often, but not always in a monarchy, or a person who succeeds in establishing himself as a monarch without inheriting the throne, or any other person exercising authority unconstitutionally. It may also be applied to an official acting ultra vires, outside his authority or jurisdiction.