Meaning of the word pre-emptive in English

What does pre-emptive mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

pre-emptive

US /ˌpriːˈemp.tɪv/
UK /ˌpriːˈemp.tɪv/
"pre-emptive" picture

Adjective

done in order to prevent something from happening, especially something bad

Example:
The military launched a pre-emptive strike to destroy the enemy's missiles.
She took pre-emptive action to avoid a confrontation.