Coup – 1. A sudden, violent and illegal seizure of power from a government. 2. Achievement of something difficult

(Pronounced koo)

To remember the definition of the word coup, use the following mnemonic:

"Cooey! (coup) Come out so I can take over your government."
Although he'd achieved something difficult, the president's time was up.

Examples of coup in a sentence (Violent seizure of power)

The military coup appeared out of nowhere and removed the president from office.

The general ordered the execution of all the soldiers who took part in the failed coup against him.

During the coup, the king and his queen fled to the safety overseas.

Examples of coup in a sentence (Achievement of something difficult)

It was a major coup to get such a prestigious contract signed.

Winning every football game of the season was a coup.

Getting the lead singer to perform the national anthem was a major coup.