preemptive

adjective pre·emp·tive \-ˈem(p)-tiv\

: done to stop an unwanted act by another group, country, etc., from happening

Full Definition of PREEMPTIVE

a : of or relating to preemption

b : having power to preempt

of a bid in bridge : higher than necessary and intended to shut out bids by the opponents

: giving a stockholder first option to purchase new stock in an amount proportionate to his existing holdings

: marked by the seizing of the initiative : initiated by oneself <a preemptive attack>

— pre·emp·tive·ly adverb

See preemptive defined for English-language learners

1855

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