dethrone
UK[diːˈθrəʊn]US[diːˈθroʊn]
v
to remove a king, queen, or other powerful person from a position of authority or power.
v
to defeat someone who is the best in a particular field, removing them from their leading position.
Morpheme Breakdown
de
throne
de
remove
throne
sovereign power
Etymology
the word dethrone is a relatively modern english formation, constructed from classical elements. the prefix de-, derived from latin, carries a strong sense of reversal or removal. it is attached to the noun throne, which entered english from old french, tracing back to latin 'thronus' and ultimately greek 'thronos', meaning a high seat or chair of state. the literal compounding of these elements, "to remove from the throne," directly and logically yields the modern meaning of deposing a monarch or ousting any figure from a supreme position of power. this transparent construction exemplifies how english readily creates new verbs to describe specific political and social actions.
Analysis
Structure: de (remove) + throne (sovereign power)
de- (Latin origin, a prefix meaning "down from, away, off, undo"). throne (from Greek 'thronos' via Latin and Old French, meaning "seat of state, sovereign power").
Examples
the rebels sought to dethrone the tyrannical king.
the young champion aims to dethrone the reigning world title holder.
technological innovation can dethrone established market leaders.