coup

coup · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from a government.

  2. 2.

    A notable or successful stroke or move; an achievement.

Forms

plural: coups

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    coup d'etat — a violent overthrow of government
  • •
    coup de grace — a final blow or shot
  • •
    pull off a coup — achieve something remarkable

Related words

See also: overthrow, revolution, takeover
Synonyms: overthrow, takeover, triumph

Etymology

From French "coup" meaning "blow, stroke," from Late Latin "colpus," from Latin "colaphus" (a blow with the fist), from Greek "kolaphos."