usurp

Verb

Verb Forms: usurped, usurping, usurps

To seize and hold power or a position without legal authority.
seize and take control without authority and possibly with force; take as one's right or possession
- "he usurped my rights"
take the place of
- "gloom had usurped mirth at the party after the news of the terrorist act broke"
To seize power from another, usually by illegitimate means.
To use and assume the coat of arms of another person.
To take the place rightfully belonging to someone or something else.
To make use of.

Examples

I tried to USURP the triple letter score with my word, but my opponent blocked it.

Origin / Etymology

From Middle English usurpen, from Old French usurper, from Latin ūsūrpō (ūsus use + rapiō seize).

Synonyms

arrogate, assume, seize, take over

Scrabble Score: 7

usurp: valid Scrabble (US) TWL Word
usurp: valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
usurp: valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 10

usurp: valid Words With Friends Word