coup
Translation
coup, masterstroke
Examples
The military staged a coup.
The military staged a coup.
Getting that contract was a real coup.
Getting that contract was a real coup.
Grammar Patterns
((a coup)) a sudden illegal seizure of power; a success The military staged a coup.
Similar Words
Synonyms: takeover, overthrow; achievement, triumph
Etymology
From French 'coup' (a blow, a strike), short for 'coup d'état' (blow of state).
Memory Tips
Think of a 'coup' as a sudden 'hit' or 'blow', either to a government or in a competition.