prevent

 
Pronunciation: /prɪˈvɛnt/

verb

[with object]
  • 1keep (something) from happening: action must be taken to prevent further accidents
  • stop (someone) from doing something: locks won’t prevent a determined burglar from getting in
  • 2 archaic (of God) go before (someone) with spiritual guidance and help.

Derivatives

preventability

Pronunciation: /-təˈbɪlɪti/
noun

preventable

(also preventible) adjective

Origin:

late Middle English (in the sense 'act in anticipation of'): from Latin praevent- 'preceded, hindered', from the verb praevenire, from prae 'before' + venire 'come'