PoliticsJuly 8, 2026
coup
/kuː/
Definition
A sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from a government by a small group, such as the military or political insiders.
Etymology
Derived from the French word 'coup d'état,' which literally translates to 'stroke of state' or 'blow of state.' It entered English in the 19th century to describe the specific act of overthrowing a government.
In the news
The article uses this word to describe the illegal actions that led to the imprisonment of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. It highlights how his plot to seize power rendered him ineligible to run in the 2026 presidential election.
Poll Tracker: Brazil’s 2026 Presidential Election
Read the full article ↗AS/COA