verb

depose

di-POHZ/dɪˈpəʊz/

To remove a ruler or official from power.

Guards depose the ruler, removing his crown and leading him from the throne.

A ruler is forcibly led away from his throne while a second guard removes his crown and takes possession of his scepter, making the loss of royal authority visible.

Etymology

The pieces give the image of putting someone down from a position of authority. Depose applies that downward displacement to removing a ruler or official from office.

In context

History Before Sleep113:52

Essex wasn't trying to depose the queen. He just wanted to kidnap her, force her to do what he wanted.

👑🕯️ Inside the Court of Elizabeth I — Secrets, Scandals, and Silent Wars 🌙 | History for Sleep

More examples

He was deposed after losing the army's support.
The council votes to depose its leader.
The defeated ruler flees before his rivals can depose him.

Forms

depose · deposes · deposed · deposing

Similar words

oust: Can describe removing anyone from a position, often forcefully.
dethrone: Dethrone removes a monarch; depose can remove other rulers or officeholders.