prevented; preventing; prevents
1
: to keep from happening or existing
steps to prevent war
3
: to deprive of power or hope of acting or succeeding
4
archaic
a
: to be in readiness for (something, such as an occasion)
b
: to meet or satisfy in advance
c
: to act ahead of
d
: to go or arrive before
: to interpose an obstacle
preventer
noun
Examples of prevent in a Sentence
Seatbelts in cars often prevent serious injuries.
Can exercise and a healthy diet prevent heart disease?
The accident could have been prevented.
He grabbed my arm to prevent me from falling.
Bad weather prevented us from leaving.
How are you going to prevent him from finding out about the party?
Recent Examples on the Web
Walker also asked Murphy what prevented the state from addressing what government leaders maintain is a critical health issue for children.
—
Dara Kam, Orlando Sentinel, 1 Mar. 2025
Lawmakers have also called to prevent the remote coverage from expiring in April.
—Dan Perry, Newsweek, 1 Mar. 2025
The accident prevented SpaceX from completing many of the flight's goals, such as testing Starship's satellite deployment mechanism and new types of heat shield material.
—Stephen Clark, Ars Technica, 1 Mar. 2025
To prevent it from sliding, the brand recommends layering it over a rug pad for added stability.
—Clint Davis, People.com, 1 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for prevent
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Dara Kam, Orlando Sentinel, 1 Mar. 2025
Lawmakers have also called to prevent the remote coverage from expiring in April.
—Dan Perry, Newsweek, 1 Mar. 2025
The accident prevented SpaceX from completing many of the flight's goals, such as testing Starship's satellite deployment mechanism and new types of heat shield material.
—Stephen Clark, Ars Technica, 1 Mar. 2025
To prevent it from sliding, the brand recommends layering it over a rug pad for added stability.
—Clint Davis, People.com, 1 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for prevent
Cite this Entry
“Prevent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prevent. Accessed 15 Mar. 2025.
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