<p><strong>Verb</strong></p><ul><li>(used with object) to prevent, hinder, or thwart by action in advance: to forestall a riot by deploying police.</li><li>Synonyms: obstruct, intercept, obviate, preclude.</li><li>To act beforehand with or get ahead of; anticipate.</li><li>Synonyms: avert, prevent.</li><li>To buy up (goods) in advance in order to increase the price when resold.</li><li>To prevent sales at (a fair, market, etc.) by buying up or diverting goods.</li></ul>