preemptive

or pre-emp·tive

[ pree-emp-tiv ]

adjective

1. of or relating to preemption.
2. taken as a measure against something possible, anticipated, or feared; preventive; deterrent:

   a preemptive tactic against a ruthless business rival.

3. preempting or possessing the power to preempt; appropriative; privileged:

   a commander's preemptive authority.

4. Bridge. pertaining to, involving, or noting an opening bid or an overcall in a suit that is at an unnecessarily high level and that is essentially a defensive maneuver designed to make communication between one's opponents more difficult:

   a preemptive bid; to give a preemptive response.

Other Words From

• pre·emp·tive·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of preemptive¹

An Americanism dating back to 1785–95; preempt + -ive

Example Sentences

But not every judge presiding over a January 6 case believes the court should preemptively take pardons into account.

From Salon

Newsom’s preemptive strike signals the return of the hostile relationship between Democratic-controlled California and the Trump administration that was a hallmark of the Republican’s first term.

From Los Angeles Times

San Diego Gas & Electric has not reported any areas in its turf that may see preemptive power shutoffs.

From Los Angeles Times

Republicans have filed dozens of lawsuits to preemptively challenge the Nov. 5 election if Trump loses.

From Los Angeles Times

Not unlike 2020, Trump and his allies are preemptively making outlandish and extreme assertions to lay the groundwork for a claim, if they don’t prevail, that the election was stolen.

From Salon