palace revolution

noun

1. a challenge to or overthrow of a sovereign or other leader by members of the ruling family or group.

palace revolution

noun

1. a coup d'état made by those already in positions of power, usually with little violence

Word History and Origins

Origin of palace revolution¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

Gabon’s opposition candidate, Albert Ondo Ossa, wouldn’t comment on the inauguration but told The Associated Press last week that the government needed to return to constitutional rule and he didn’t consider the president’s ousting to be a coup but rather a “palace revolution” in order to continue the Bongo’s family’s reign.

From Washington Times

Our source's comments echo those of opposition leader Albert Ondo Ossa, who told the Associated Press that the coup was a "palace revolution", engineered by the Bongo family to retain their power.

From BBC

Speaking to French media outlet TV5 Monde Thursday, Albert Ondo Ossa said the junta who ousted Gabon’s president on Wednesday did not engage in a coup but rather a “palace revolution” in order to continue their family’s reign.

From Seattle Times

But a palace revolution broke out between Majid and her other brother, Barghash.

From BBC

“What they did was orchestrate a palace revolution, a coup to get rid of her, because she’s too headstrong,” she said.

From New York Times