usurper

Definition

One who usurps.

Etymology

From Middle English usurper, usurpour, usurpur, from Middle French usurpeur; equivalent to usurp + -er.

Example Sentences

• "The fact that the Yongle emperor was therefore a usurper, regicide and nepoticide (nephew-killer) made compiling the Veritable Record – or official history – of his reign a most dangerous scholarly post. The official given this ticklish task managed to survive several drafts, finally producing one that pleased his master as it omitted the dead nephew's reign altogether."