prevent

/prɪˈvɛnt/

Definitions

1. verb

to take steps to stop something from happening or to stop something from continuing

“The fire department worked to prevent the spread of the wildfire.”

2. noun

something that prevents something else from happening or continuing

“The new safety feature is a prevent in the car’s design.”

3. transitive verb

to stop or hinder someone or something from doing something

“The parents tried to prevent their child from watching the violent movie.”

Synonyms

  • block
  • hinder
  • stop

Antonyms

  • allow
  • cause
  • encourage