coup d'etat Get Printable Handwriting Hear It! Say It! Write It! Learn It! Spelling Test Definition noun. a sudden and decisive change of government illegally or by force Example Sentence In a coup d'etat top government leaders are suddenly replaced by others. Synonyms takeover; overthrow; palace revolution Antonyms peaceful election Hear It! Say It! Write It! coup d'etat Switch to cursive Start Share with your friends: