preempt
//priˈɛmpt//
Verb
preemptInfinitive
preemptPresent tense
preemptedPast tense
preemptedPast participle
preemptingPresent participle
preemptsThird-person singular
1
To take action in order to prevent something from happening or to prevent someone else from doing something.
The company preempted the competition by launching the product early.
2
To take the place of or replace something, especially a scheduled broadcast or event.
The breaking news preempted the regular TV program.
3
To acquire or appropriate something before someone else can.
She preempted the best seats by arriving early.