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

Particularly with Milwaukee and Tampa, as the Dodgers obviously are able to supplant their analytics group with big spending on free agents. — Ian Miller Outkick, FOXNews.com, 21 Oct. 2026

The sophomores got the nod to start through the first four games before Congdon supplanted Alofaituli against Clemson. — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 10 Oct. 2026

As quiet luxury makes way for more of a statement in fashion, so, too are bolder hair and makeup creations supplanting natural looks. — Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 9 Oct. 2026

The Thunder’s rosters have been loaded with system players who can supplant their non-superstar production and mask absences in the rotation. — Doug Haller, New York Times, 3 Oct. 2026