to keep from occurring; avert; hinder

He intervened to prevent bloodshed.

to hinder or stop from doing something

There is nothing to prevent us from going.

Archaic . to act ahead of; forestall.

Archaic . to precede.

Archaic . to anticipate.

to interpose a hindrance

He will come if nothing prevents.

verb

aid , allow , assist , cause , help , let go

verb

anticipate , arrest , avert , avoid , baffle , balk , bar , block , check , chill * , cool , cork , counter , counteract , dam , debar , defend against , foil , forbid , forestall , forfend , frustrate , halt , hamper , head off , hinder , hold back , hold off , impede , inhibit , intercept , interdict , interrupt , keep lid on , limit , nip in the bud * , obstruct , obviate , preclude , prohibit , put an end to , put a stop to , repress , restrain , restrict , retard , rule out , shut out , stave off , stop , thwart , turn aside , ward off , ward , abort , bind , censor , circumvent , defend , deter , estop , forbear , gag , guard , nip in the bud , paralyze , parry , preempt , resist , stifle , suppress , veto , warn