verb
oust
owst
Oust (verb) means to force someone out of a position of power or place, often against their will. Example: “The board voted to oust the chief executive after months of controversy.”
verb
1
To force someone out of a position of power or place, often against their will.
"The board voted to oust the chief executive after months of controversy."
"Rebels ousted the government in a swift coup."
How to use oust
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo kick someone out of a job, office, or position of control.
When to use it
Common in news reporting about politics and business.
Common pairings
oust a leader
oust from power
oust the president
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- ousts
- Past tense
- ousted
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The board voted to _____ the chief executive after months of controversy.
Etymology
From Anglo-Norman ouster, ultimately from a Latin verb meaning "to obstruct" or "stand in the way of" — despite appearances, it is not related to the word "out."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for oust
See all rhymes for oust →Frequently asked questions
What does “oust” mean?
The word “oust” means to force someone out of a position of power or place, often against their will. In plain terms, to kick someone out of a job, office, or position of control.
How do you pronounce “oust”?
“Oust” is pronounced owst (/aʊst/ in IPA).
How do you use “oust” in a sentence?
Here is “oust” used in a sentence: “The board voted to oust the chief executive after months of controversy.”
What is the opposite of “oust”?
The opposite of “oust” — its antonyms — are accept, harbor and shelter.
What part of speech is “oust”?
“Oust” is a verb.
Where does the word “oust” come from?
The word “oust” comes from Latin. From Anglo-Norman ouster, ultimately from a Latin verb meaning "to obstruct" or "stand in the way of" — despite appearances, it is not related to the word "out.".
