Supplant
Verb
Definition: To supersede (someone) and take their place, typically by force or strategy.
Synonyms: Replace, Oust, Overthrow, Displace
Antonyms: Retain, Uphold, Support, Maintain
- The new CEO supplants the old one and implements major changes in the company.
- Technology is rapidly supplanting traditional methods in many industries.
- Think of supplant as "super-plants" that grow so quickly and forcefully that they replace the existing plants.
Etymology:
Middle English 'supplanten', from Old French 'supplanter', based on Latin 'supplantare' meaning "trip up" or "overturn."
Historical Usage:The word has been used since the 14th century to describe the act of forcibly replacing someone or something.
Related Idioms:
"Supplant someone/something in (someone's) affections"
Explanation:This phrase refers to winning someone's love or favor, thereby replacing someone else who was previously loved or favored.
Misconceptions:
Confusing 'supplant' with 'support' due to similar-sounding words.
Explanation:While 'support' implies providing assistance or backing, 'supplant' means to replace or uproot something or someone.