Definition of the word forestall

The word "forestall" derives from the Middle English verb "forestalen," which means "to prevent or hinder in advance." The prefix "fore-" in the word signifies "before" or "in front of," while the stem "stal-" is derived from the Old English verb "stillan," which means "to stay" or "ruin." Originally, the term "forestall" was used in a legal context to describe an action taken by one party to preempt a legal outcome that had been initiated by another party. For example, a debtor might forestall a forced sale of his property by making arrangements for its payment before the creditor could legally seize it. This usage can still be seen in modern law, where the term "forestall" is often used to describe the preemptive purchase of goods with the intention of immediately reselling them at a profit. In its more general usage, "forestall" now means "to anticipate and prevent (an event or consequence)" or "to hinder or delay the accomplishment of (something)." This extended definition of forestall has evolved to encompass a wider range of contexts and situations beyond just legal matters, such as preventing a negative outcome in business, economics, or personal affairs. In summary, the word "forestall" originated in Middle English and originally referred to legal actions taken to prevent a specific outcome. Over time, it came to mean anticipating and preventing events or consequences to encompass a variety of contexts and situations beyond just legal matters, ultimately expanding to its modern meaning of "hinder or delay."