anticipate

verb

Sayan-TIS-i-paytUK/ænˈtɪs.ɪ.peɪt/AUS/ænˈtɪs.ɪ.pæɪt/

Formsanticipates, anticipating, anticipated

4 meanings of anticipate

1
verbtransitive
To expect that something will happen before it does.
Like seeing dark clouds and knowing rain is on the way.
We anticipate heavy rain this weekend, so bring an umbrella.
She anticipated the question and had her answer ready.
Similarexpect, foresee
Note
2
verbtransitive
To wait for something with excitement and eagerness.
Like counting down the days until a trip you can't wait to take.
The kids anticipate their birthday party all month long.
Fans anticipated the new movie for years before its release.
Similarawait
Oppositedread
3
verbtransitive
To act before someone else does, often to stop what they planned.
Like grabbing the last seat before anyone else can sit down.
The general anticipated the enemy by striking first.
Smart players anticipate their opponents and move first.
Similarpreempt, preclude
Note
4
verbtransitive
To bring up or start something before the right time.
The teacher asked the class not to anticipate chapter five by talking about it today.
He anticipated the surprise by telling his sister about the party a week early.
Similaradvance
Oppositepostpone, defer

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Origin

From Latin anticipare, meaning to take before, from ante- (before) and capere (to take).