<p><strong>Verb (used with object)</strong></p><ul><li>to keep from occurring; avert; hinder: He intervened to prevent bloodshed.</li><li>Synonyms: thwart, obviate, preclude, forestall, obstruct.</li><li>Antonyms: assist, help.</li><li>to hinder or stop from doing something: There is nothing to prevent us from going.</li><li>Archaic: to act ahead of; forestall.</li><li>Archaic: to precede.</li><li>Archaic: to anticipate.</li></ul><p><strong>Verb (used without object)</strong></p><ul><li>to interpose a hindrance: He will come if nothing prevents.</li></ul>