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coup-d'état

noun

/ˌkuː deɪˈtɑː/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of coup-d'état

A sudden, violent overthrow of an existing government by a small group.
"He was arrested for his role in the attempted coup d'etat."

Detailed meaning of coup-d'état

"Coup d'etat" is a French phrase that translates to "stroke of state" or "blow against the state." It is used to describe a sudden, illegal and often violent takeover of a government, typically by a small group of people in positions of power, such as military leaders or politicians. A coup d'etat is typically carried out by a small group of individuals who seek to overthrow the existing government and establish a new regime. The group may use force, propaganda or other means to gain control of key government institutions, such as the military, the police, and the media. The objective of a coup d'etat is to overthrow the legitimate government and replace it with a new leadership. In many cases, the coup leaders may suspend or abolish the constitution and impose martial law, censorship and repression to maintain their grip on power. Coup d'etat is a serious political crime and is widely condemned by the international community.

Example sentences containing coup-d'état

1. The coup d'état toppled the government, sparking chaos.
2. A successful coup d'état can reshape a nation's destiny.
3. Coup d'états often lead to power struggles and instability.
4. The military orchestrated the coup d'état in secrecy.
5. The coup d'état caught the world by surprise.
6. Citizens protested against the coup d'état in the streets.

History and etymology of coup-d'état

The noun 'coup d'état' has its etymological origins in French. It is formed by combining 'coup,' which means 'blow' or 'strike,' and 'état,' meaning 'state' or 'government.' Therefore, 'coup d'état' can be understood as a 'blow to the state' or 'a sudden overthrow of the government.' The term entered the English language in the early 19th century, primarily used to describe a sudden and often violent change of government orchestrated by a small group or faction within a country. 'Coup d'état' underscores the dramatic and forceful nature of such political upheavals, where the existing government is abruptly and forcefully replaced. Its etymology reflects its historical connection to French political discourse and its adoption into the broader international vocabulary to describe significant political events.

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Further usage examples of coup-d'état

1. A coup d'état can disrupt a country's political landscape.
2. Coup d'états have historical implications for nations.
3. The coup d'état resulted in a change of leadership.
4. Foreign nations condemned the violent coup d'état.
5. Government officials were arrested in the coup d'état.
6. The coup d'état shattered the nation's peace.
7. The coup d'état prompted international intervention.
8. A coup d'état requires careful planning and execution.
9. The coup d'état left the country in turmoil.
10. Repercussions of the coup d'état were felt for years.
11. The coup d'état led to a period of authoritarian rule.
12. Coup d'états can have profound societal consequences.
13. The coup d'état was met with resistance from civilians.
14. Political analysts debated the motives behind the coup d'état.
15. The coup d'etat was successful and the dictator was overthrown.
16. The coup d'etat was planned for months by a group of military officers.
17. He was exiled after the failed coup d'etat.
18. She was a key player in the coup d'etat that brought the new government to power.
19. The coup d'etat was met with resistance from the loyalists.
20. He was executed for his role in the coup d'etat.
21. She was appointed as the head of the new government after the coup d'etat.
22. The coup d'etat was carried out with the support of foreign powers.
23. He was arrested for plotting a coup d'etat against the government.
24. She was a vocal opponent of the coup d'etat and supported the legitimate government.
25. The coup d'etat was widely condemned by the international community.