Synonyms of invade

invade

verb

in-ˈvād 

as in to raid

to enter for conquest or plunder

a superpower that had a tendency to invade and take over smaller and weaker countries

Synonyms & Similar Words

• raid
• ravage
• dominate
• conquer
• occupy
• attack
• overrun
• overcome
• encroach
• subjugate
• plunder
• subdue
• overwhelm
• despoil
• besiege
• pillage
• foray (into)
• vanquish
• assault
• overpower
• sack
• fight
• strip
• assail
• loot
• harass
• ransack
• maraud
• storm
• trespass
• war (with)
• subject
• infringe
• combat
• beset
• rush
• strike
• crush
• battle
• clash (with)
• garrison
• charge
• blockade
• invest
• beleaguer

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• protect
• defend
• safeguard
• guard
• resist
• ward
• shield
• oppose
• withstand
• repel
• defy
• submit (to)
• yield (to)
• surrender (to)
• succumb (to)
• cede (to)
• capitulate (to)

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb invade differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of invade are encroach, infringe, and trespass. While all these words mean "to make inroads upon the property, territory, or rights of another," invade implies a hostile and injurious entry into the territory or sphere of another.

accused of invading their privacy

When would encroach be a good substitute for invade?

The words encroach and invade are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, encroach suggests gradual or stealthy entrance upon another's territory or usurpation of another's rights or possessions.

the encroaching settlers displacing the native peoples

When is infringe a more appropriate choice than invade?

In some situations, the words infringe and invade are roughly equivalent. However, infringe implies an encroachment clearly violating a right or prerogative.

infringing a copyright

Where would trespass be a reasonable alternative to invade?

While the synonyms trespass and invade are close in meaning, trespass implies an unwarranted or unlawful intrusion.

hunters trespassing on farmland

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of invade

As the Marathas worked to expand their empire, Durrani invaded India for a fourth time (1756–57), resulting in the Afghans establishing control in the Punjab, which was inhabited by Sikhs. — Tamanna Nangia, Encyclopedia Britannica, 14 Aug. 2026

Clinton retaliates by abducting Terrance and Phillip and threatening to execute them, signaling his intent to invade Canada. — Damon Wise, Deadline, 13 Aug. 2026

Wolverine frees Essex and races to the exit, but Essex musters enough psychic power to cause all of the invading soldiers to explode. — Jordan Moreau, Variety, 13 Aug. 2026

On top of that, nature was always invading, and the property spread over 12 acres. — Adriane Quinlan, Curbed, 13 Aug. 2026