coup Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a sudden and decisive change of government illegally or by force
    takeover; coup d'etat; putsch.
  2. noun a brilliant and notable success

WordNet

Coup noun
Etymology
F., fr.L. colaphus a cuff, Gr. .
Definitions
  1. A sudden stroke; an unexpected device or stratagem; -- a term used in various ways to convey the idea of promptness and force.

Webster 1913