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

Preemption pushes have continued over the past year.

From Slate • Feb. 22, 2024

Preemption played a prominent role in states' COVID-19 containment efforts.

From Salon • May 9, 2023

Preemption and the private right of action are real challenges, but there are solutions that could provide a high level of protection for consumers and legal certainty for businesses.

From Washington Post • Apr. 4, 2022

Preemption, not reaction, would go a long way.

From Time • Oct. 16, 2013

The law allowing lands to be secured at private entry was repealed in 1889; the law allowing public sales was repealed in 1891, and the Preemption Law was also repealed the same year.

From Proceedings of the Second National Conservation Congress at Saint Paul, September 5-8, 1910 by United States. National Conservation Congress