English · Word Candidate

overthrow

/əʊvəˈθɹəʊ/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: overthrows · overthrowing · overthrew · overthrown

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To bring about the downfall of (a government, etc.), especially by force; to usurp.

Verb

Examples

I hate the current government, but not enough to want to overthrow them.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A removal, especially of a ruler or government, by force or threat of force; usurpation.

Noun

Examples

Once more I come to know of thee King Harry, / If for thy Ranſome thou wilt now compound, / Before thy moſt aſſured Ouerthrow: […]

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To throw (something) so that it goes too far.

Verb

Examples

He overthrew first base, for an error.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

A throw that goes too far.

Noun

Examples

[A]n energy shift accompanies the onset of emotion. Failure to recognize this can lead to disruptions in performance. A quarterback who fails to acknowledge his excitement in a big game is prone to countless overthrows until the excitement has subsided.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “overthrow” mean?

To bring about the downfall of (a government, etc.), especially by force; to usurp.

Is “overthrow” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.