# depose

/dɪˈpoʊz/ (US) · /dɪpˈəʊz/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/depose
Updated: 2026-08-24

## Definition

to remove someone from a position of power, especially a leader or ruler. You use this when talking about governments, courts, or official jobs.

For teachers: to remove from office or a position of authority, especially by legal or formal process. Typically takes a human direct object — the person deposed.

## Examples

- The court deposed the corrupt official.
- Witnesses were called to depose under oath about what they had seen during the incident.
- Though the military had the strength to depose the aging dictator by force, they chose instead to support a constitutional process that would preserve institutional legitimacy.

## Usage notes

- Transitive — always takes a direct object. In legal contexts, also means 'to testify under oath', especially in American English.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.