topple

[ top-uhl ]

verb (used without object)

, top·pled, top·pling.

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)

, top·pled, top·pling.

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 Words From

• un·toppled 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

Senate, a fight that could come down to Texas and Allred’s bid to topple one of his party’s archnemeses, Republican Ted Cruz.

From Los Angeles Times

Too much soil on one side could destabilize the structure, causing it to topple, he said, “which would be really, really sad.”

From Los Angeles Times

Farrell and Lurie, both moderate Democrats, have emerged as two likely candidates to topple Breed in San Francisco’s messy — and bitter — five-way race for mayor.

From Los Angeles Times

Older California homes can slide or topple off their foundations in an earthquake.

From Los Angeles Times

Because the home hasn’t been fastened tightly to the foundation, the house can slide or topple off its foundation in an earthquake, potentially leading to hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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