prevent

Definition

To stop (an outcome); to keep from (doing something).

Etymology

From Middle English preventen (“anticipate”), from Latin praeventus, perfect passive participle of praeveniō (“I anticipate”), from prae (“before”) + veniō (“I come”).

Example Sentences

• "I brush my teeth regularly to prevent tooth decay."
• "Scotland must now hope Georgia produce a huge upset and beat Argentina by at least eight points in Sunday's final Pool B match to prevent them failing to make the last eight for the first time in World Cup history."
• "I think you must be mad, and she shall not have a glimpse of it while I'm here to prevent!"