dɪsˈpleɪs dɪsˈpleɪs make a preemptive bid in the game of bridge acquire for oneself before others can do so gain possession of by prior right or opportunity, especially so as to obtain the right to buy (land) take the place of or have precedence over live broadcast of the presidential debate preempts the regular news hour discussion of the emergency situation will preempt the lecture by the professor a high bid that is intended to prevent the opposing players from bidding