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preemptive Definition

pre·emptive (prē emp′tiv)

adjective

  1. of or having to do with preemption
  2. Bridge designating a high bid intended to shut out or obstruct opposing bids

preemptive Related Forms

pre·emp′tive·ly adverb or pre-emp′tively

preemptive Usage Examples

Modifies a noun

  • strike: Sammy, angry at being repeatedly denied her serve, makes a preemptive strike on Daddy's forearm.
  • war: In Portland, Oregon, at least 20,000 peopl e gathered against a preemptive war against Iraq - read entire feature.
  • attack: To our authors, the answer is obvious: we should launch preemptive attacks on these countries.
  • right: In addition to voting rights, common shareholders sometimes enjoy what are called " preemptive rights.
  • multitasker: Also included in the release is a patch for normal Wimp calls, making them call the preemptive multitasker SWIs instead.