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.

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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

See Examples For:

preemption

Michael Gerrard, a climate law professor at Columbia University, told AFP the ruling heavily relied on the "preemption question."

From Barron's ● Sep. 1, 2026

However, they also agreed with Cipollone that tobacco liability cases do not get blanket federal preemption, especially if industry participates in fraud or other deceptive practices independent of a warning label.

From Slate ● Jun. 25, 2026

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

Instead, it has resurfaced in more targeted disputes about statutory interpretation and federal preemption.

From Slate ● Mar. 31, 2026

Here was land in these Canadian plains to be had for nothing but the preemption fee of ten dollars and three years' residence.

From The Canadian Commonwealth by Agnes C. (Agnes Christina) Laut