Usurp
(yoo-SERP)
Definition: to take over a position illegally or depose a ruler (the king, not the yardstick) by force.
Origins: Latin usus, 'use', and rapere, 'to seize.' Traveled to us through French, like most words.
Sentence: "Cathy usurped Rick's position as head of the board, and forced him to sign the document."