preempt
US: /ˈpɹiˌɛmpt/
Concise dictionary
preempts|preempted|preempting'prɪː'emptnoun
+a high bid that is intended to prevent the opposing players from bidding
verb
+acquire for oneself before others can do so
+take the place of or have precedence over
+gain possession of by prior right or opportunity, especially so as to obtain the right to buy (land)
+make a preemptive bid in the game of bridge
