depose

[dih-pohz]

verb (used with object)

deposed, deposing 

1. to remove from office or position, especially high office.

   The people deposed the dictator.

2. to testify or affirm under oath, especially in a written statement.

   to depose that it was true.

3. Law.,  to take the deposition of; examine under oath.

   Two lawyers deposed the witness.

verb (used without object)

deposed, deposing 

1. to give sworn testimony, especially in writing.

depose

/ dɪˈpəʊz /

verb

1. (tr) to remove from an office or position, esp one of power or rank

2. law to testify or give (evidence, etc) on oath, esp when taken down in writing; make a deposition

Other Word Forms

• deposable adjective
• deposer noun
• undeposable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of depose¹

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English deposen, from Old French deposer “to put down,” equivalent to de- de- + poser, from unattested Vulgar Latin posāre, Late Latin pausāre; pose ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of depose¹

C13: from Old French deposer to put away, put down, from Late Latin dēpōnere to depose from office, from Latin: to put aside; see _depone

Example Sentences

But the uncertainty may not be over for Thailand which has seen multiple administrations deposed by court interventions and military coups in the recent past.

From BBC

Returning to our old friend Ludwig for a moment, note that he was known as “Mad King Ludwig” to the people who wanted to depose him, starting with his courtiers.

From Salon

Many call for hundreds of hours spent deposing witnesses and performing research, as well as upfront costs of tens of thousands of dollars.

From Salon

The former minister is accused of illegally receiving land in Bangladesh as part of a wider investigation into the regime of her aunt, Sheikh Hasina, who was deposed as prime minister last year.

From BBC

"I don't think it's a surprise - he's playing like Scottie," said the Northern Irishman, who was handed his Green Jacket by deposed champion Scheffler in April.

From BBC

Related Words

• demote 
• dethrone 
• dismiss 
• impeach 
• overthrow 
• unseat