Crossword Genius

Assume in pretence (5)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

usurp

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'assume' is the definition.
(I know that assume can be written as usurp)

I can't explain the remainder of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for usurp that I've seen before include "Wrongfully assume" , "Expropriate" , "Take over occupation" , "Dethrone" , "Seize wrongfully" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Independent.
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