anticipate

Definition

To act before (someone), especially to prevent an action.

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin anticipātus, perfect passive participle of anticipō (“to anticipate”) (see -ate (verb-forming suffix)), from ante- (“before”), + capiō (“to take”, cip- when prefixed) + -ō (verb-forming suffix). See capable.

Example Sentences

• "c. 1824 (written, published in 1891) Robert Hall, Fragment on Popery When two parties, each formidable for their numbers, and the weight of their influence and property, are animated by an equal degree of zeal, it is natural to anticipate the final success of that which possesses the most inherent strength."
• "He would probably have died by the hand of the executioner, if indeed the executioner had not been anticipated by the populace."
• "The advocate plans to anticipate a part of her argument."

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