Definition of topple

The origins of the word "topple" can be traced back to the Middle English word "toppeln," which means "to tilt" or "to incline" stemming from the Old Norse-Germanic root "tuppl-," meaning "to tilt" or "to lean." The word gained further popularity in the late 17th century when John Dryden, an English poet and literary critic, used it in his play "Absalom and Achitophel" to describe a person falling from power. From there, the meaning evolved to describe the action of causing someone or something to fall or overthrow, particularly in the context of political or other significant events. Today, the word "topple" has become a common term in both everyday language and news headlines, particularly in reference to the fall of authoritarian regimes or corrupt officials.