# Junta

/ˈhʊntə/ (US) · /dʒˈʌntɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/junta
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a small group of people, usually military officers, who take control of a country by force. This group often rules after a government has been removed suddenly.

For teachers: a small group, typically composed of military officers, that rules a country after seizing power by force. Often used to describe the transitional or permanent administration following a coup d'état.

## Examples

- The military junta took control of the capital overnight.
- After the coup, the junta suspended the constitution and banned all political protests in the city.
- International observers expressed grave concern that the ruling junta would fail to uphold its promise of returning the nation to civilian rule within the calendar year.

## Usage notes

- Often takes a singular verb in American English and a plural verb in British English.

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