definition of
forestall

[1] #1 forestall v. [prevent, foreclose, preclude, forbid] keep from happening or arising; make impossible; "My sense of tact forbids an honest answer"; "Your role in the projects precludes your involvement in the competitive project". wn

[2] #2 forestall v. [anticipate, foresee, counter] act in advance of; deal with ahead of time. wn