preemptive
|pre/emp/tive|
C1
/priˈɛmptɪv/
preventive action
Etymology
Etymology Information
'preemptive' originates from the Latin word 'praeemere,' where 'prae-' meant 'before' and 'emere' meant 'to buy.'
Historical Evolution
'praeemere' transformed into the French word 'préempter,' and eventually became the modern English word 'preemptive' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to buy before others,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'preventive action.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
taken as a measure against something anticipated or feared; preventive.
The country launched a preemptive strike to prevent an attack.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45