preemption

American  

[pree-emp-shuhn] / priˈɛmp ʃən /

Or pre-emption

noun

1. the act or right of claiming or purchasing before or in preference to others.

2. Law.

   1. Also called federal preemption.  the doctrine that federal law takes precedence over state law when the two conflict.

   2. Also called state preemption.  the doctrine that state law takes precedence over local law, such as county or municipal legislation, when the two conflict.

3. Military. a policy of attacking first when there is imminent threat of attack by an enemy, or an enactment of this policy: The possibility of preemption is of grave concern to several Pentagon officials.

   Preemption only works if there is sufficient intelligence capacity.

   The possibility of preemption is of grave concern to several Pentagon officials.

---

Etymology

Origin of preemption

First recorded in 1595–1605; from Medieval Latin praeëmpt(us) “bought beforehand” (past participle of praeëmere ) + -ion; see pre-, emptor; see also redeem ( def. )

Example Sentences

For instance, a packaging company, retailer or distributor can claim that they have such a preemption, Kar said, and CalRecycle might not immediately review that claim.

From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2026

Over the six days between the show’s preemption and its return, celebrities and influencers posted instructions on how to cancel subscriptions to Disney’s streaming services.

From Salon • Sep. 26, 2025

Sinclair Broadcast Group is ending its preemption of ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 26, 2025

The state’s preemption would preserve the use of a popular facade material and maintain flexibility for builders in Seattle.

From Slate • Feb. 28, 2025

In early days the bailiff of the de Redvers regulated all markets, fairs, tolls, and fines, and had the right of preemption and sat as judge in the tenants' court.

From Bell's Cathedrals: Wimborne Minster and Christchurch Priory A Short History of Their Foundation and a Description of Their Buildings by Perkins, Thomas, Rev.