Vocabulary word Topple - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

Consequences and Reactions

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Damage and Destruction

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Destruction and Devastation

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Dictionary Definition of topple

To cause something or someone to fall over or collapse from an upright position.
"The strong winds might topple the old tree."

Detailed Meaning of Topple

It implies the sudden or forceful displacement of an object, structure, or person, often resulting in a loss of stability. When something is toppled, it is typically due to external factors or an applied force that surpasses its ability to maintain balance. Toppling can occur in various contexts, such as toppling a tower of blocks, toppling a dictator from power, or toppling a tree during a storm. It conveys the notion of a sudden and often dramatic change in the position or status of the subject. Metaphorically, "topple" can also describe the overthrow or removal of a person or entity from a position of authority, influence, or dominance. Overall, the verb "topple" conveys the idea of a sudden, often uncontrolled, and significant fall or collapse.

Example Sentences for Topple

1. The strong gust of wind threatened to topple the fragile tower.
2. The protesters tried to topple the oppressive regime peacefully.
3. The earthquake had the power to topple entire buildings.
4. With a gentle push, he managed to topple the tower of blocks.
5. The aging tree finally succumbed to the storm and began to topple.
6. The scandal threatened to topple the politician's career.

Origin and Etymology of Topple

The verb 'topple' finds its roots in the Old English word 'typpan,' which meant 'to tumble over' or 'fall over.' This word has remained remarkably consistent in its meaning over the centuries. 'Topple' captures the action of causing something or someone to fall over or collapse from an upright position, often implying instability or the loss of balance. The etymology of 'topple' reflects the universal human experience of witnessing or causing objects or structures to tip and fall, and it continues to be used to describe such occurrences in modern language.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb topple:

support

overthrow

erect

stabilize

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Topple

1. The dominoes were set up in a way that would topple with a nudge.
2. The landslide had the potential to topple houses in its path.
3. They worked together to topple the corrupt corporate leadership.
4. She accidentally bumped into the table, causing a glass to topple.
5. His reckless behavior could easily topple the delicate balance of peace.
6. The crowd attempted to topple the statue.
7. The cards will topple if you add any more.
8. The earthquake could topple many buildings.
9. Don't push it, or it will topple over.
10. If you're not careful, the books will topple off the shelf.
11. The scandal threatens to topple the government.
12. The cat might topple that vase with its tail.
13. The dominoes will topple in a chain reaction.
14. The political uprising aims to topple the dictator's regime.
15. The climbers must be cautious, as a strong gust can topple them.
16. The toddler is learning to walk, but tends to topple easily.
17. The recent revelations may topple the CEO’s reputation.
18. His careless maneuver almost made the motorcycle topple.
19. The heavy weight on top may topple the entire stack.
20. Be careful with the ladder; it's unstable and could topple.
21. If the base isn’t strong enough, the tower will topple.
22. One more piece, and the Jenga tower will topple.
23. The balance is delicate, and any disruption can topple it.
24. The activists are working tirelessly to topple the oppressive system.