Usurp - Definition
usurp
v 1: seize and take control without authority and possibly with
force; take as one's right or possession; "He assumed to
himself the right to fill all positions in the town"; "he
usurped my rights"; "She seized control of the throne after
her husband died" [syn: assume, usurp, seize, take
over, arrogate]
2: take the place of; "gloom had usurped mirth at the party
after the news of the terrorist act broke"