Dictionary definition · preempt
noun
- a high bid that is intended to prevent the opposing players from bidding
verb
- acquire for oneself before others can do so
- take the place of or have precedence over"live broadcast of the presidential debate preempts the regular news hour"
- gain possession of by prior right or opportunity, especially so as to obtain the right to buy (land)
- make a preemptive bid in the game of bridge
Similar words
Source: Open English WordNet (CC BY 4.0).