topple

[top-uhl]

verb (used without object)

toppled, toppling 

1. to fall forward, as from having too heavy a top; pitch; tumble down.

2. to lean over or jut, as if threatening to fall.

verb (used with object)

toppled, toppling 

1. to cause to topple.

2. to overthrow, as from a position of authority.

   to topple the king.

   Synonyms: overpower, overcome, vanquish, defeat

topple

/ ˈtɒpəl /

verb

1. to tip over or cause to tip over, esp from a height

2. (intr) to lean precariously or totter

3. (tr) to overthrow; oust

Other Word Forms

• untoppled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of topple¹

1535–45; earlier top to tilt, topple ( tope ¹ ) + -le

Word History and Origins

Origin of topple¹

C16: frequentative of _top ¹ (verb)

Example Sentences

In March, a spacecraft by commercial US firm Intuitive Machines toppled over onto its side during landing, ending the mission prematurely.

From BBC

The White House says it’s meant to deter maritime narcotics trafficking, not topple Maduro.

From Los Angeles Times

What was left of the platform was toppled into the sea in March 1989.

From BBC

One of his best-known stunts was leaping from a pole that was on fire as it toppled over - a feat he performed for the 1963 adventure film Kings of the Sun.

From BBC

Dozens of soldiers have been arrested in Mali accused of plotting to topple the country's military leaders, sources say.

From BBC

Related Words

• collapse 
• oust 
• overturn 
• plunge 
• tumble 
• unseat 
• upset