coup

The definition of a coup is a political uprising in which power changes hands or a successful strategic move.

(noun)

See coup in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun pl. coups

Origin: ME coupe & Fr coup, both < OFr colp < ML colpus < VL colapus < L colaphus, a cuff, box on the ear < Gr kolaphos

See coup in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun pl. coups coups (ko͞oz)

A brilliantly executed stratagem; a triumph.
a. A coup d'état.
b. A sudden appropriation of leadership or power; a takeover: a boardroom coup.
Among certain Native American peoples, a feat of bravery performed in battle, especially the touching of an enemy's body without causing injury.

Origin:

Origin: French, stroke

Origin: , from Old French colp

Origin: , from Late Latin colpus

Origin: , from Latin colaphus

Origin: , from Greek kolaphos

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