Synonyms of supplant

supplant

verb

sə-ˈplant 

as in to replace

to take the place of

old traditions that were fading away and being supplanted by modern ways

Synonyms & Similar Words

• replace
• supersede
• substitute
• displace
• relieve
• usurp
• displant
• preempt
• cut out

Synonym Chooser

How is the word supplant distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of supplant are displace, replace, and supersede. While all these words mean "to put out of a usual or proper place or into the place of another," supplant implies either a dispossessing or usurping of another's place, possessions, or privileges or an uprooting of something and its replacement with something else.

was abruptly supplanted in her affections by another

When is it sensible to use displace instead of supplant?

Although the words displace and supplant have much in common, displace implies an ousting or dislodging.

war had displaced thousands

When could replace be used to replace supplant?

In some situations, the words replace and supplant are roughly equivalent. However, replace implies a filling of a place once occupied by something lost, destroyed, or no longer usable or adequate.

replaced the broken window

When can supersede be used instead of supplant?

The words supersede and supplant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, supersede implies replacing a person or thing that has become superannuated, obsolete, or otherwise inferior.

the new edition supersedes all previous ones

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of supplant

The veteran supplanted Richardson as the Colts’ starter in training camp and quickly revived his career in Indianapolis. —James Boyd, New York Times, 3 Mar. 2026

Earlier this month, DeSantis stressed the state has a responsibility to channel technology to benefit people and enhance, rather than supplant, the human experience. —Jim Turner, Sun Sentinel, 27 Feb. 2026

Zuckerberg says the devices can eventually supplant smartphones, though analysts have more modest projections. —Bloomberg, Mercury News, 24 Feb. 2026

Community interdependence and the common good have been supplanted by for-profit services, leaving many people feeling isolated and ignored. —Erica Rex, STAT, 19 Feb. 2026