preempt
or pre-empt
[ pree-empt ]
/ priˈɛmpt /
verb (used with object)
to occupy (land) in order to establish a prior right to buy.
to acquire or appropriate before someone else; take for oneself; arrogate: a political issue preempted by the opposition party.
to take the place of because of priorities, reconsideration, rescheduling, etc.; supplant: The special newscast preempted the usual television program.
verb (used without object)
Bridge.
to make a preemptive bid.
to forestall or prevent (something anticipated) by acting first; preclude; head off: an effort to preempt inflation.
noun
Bridge.
a preemptive bid.
Origin of preempt
1840–50,
Americanism; back formation from
preemption