<p><strong>Verb (used with object)</strong></p><ul><li>to seize and hold (a position, office, power, etc.) by force or without legal right: The pretender tried to usurp the throne.</li><li>to use without authority or right; employ wrongfully: The magazine usurped copyrighted material.</li></ul><p><strong>Verb (used without object)</strong></p><ul><li>to commit forcible or illegal seizure of an office, power, etc.; encroach.</li></ul>