anticipatory

adjective

an·​tic·​i·​pa·​to·​ry an-ˈti-sə-pə-ˌtȯr-ē 

: characterized by anticipation : anticipating

took anticipatory measures to prevent floods

Synonyms

• agape
• agog
• anticipant
• expectant

Examples of anticipatory in a Sentence

couldn't control his anticipatory excitement on Christmas morning

Recent Examples on the Web

This anticipatory logistics model shrinks delivery time and creates seamless omnichannel satisfaction. —Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 6 May 2025

The anticipatory behavior wasn't triggered by changes in light or temperature—variables that remained largely unchanged until the eclipse. —Thomas Westerholm, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 May 2025

This was most prominent in older trees, which may have gained such impressive anticipatory abilities by growing accustomed to eclipse patterns over their long lifespan. —Jack Knudson, Discover Magazine, 30 Apr. 2025

Prescriptive and anticipatory models and adaptable response frameworks enable businesses to manage risks proactively and respond quickly. —Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1664, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for anticipatory

• adjudicatory
• articulatory
• classificatory
• conciliatory
• congratulatory
• discriminatory
• ejaculatory
• emancipatory
• hallucinatory
• interlaboratory
• interrogatory
• investigatory

Legal Definition

anticipatory

adjective

an·​tic·​i·​pa·​tory an-ˈti-sə-pə-ˌtōr-ē 

: of or relating to a prior action that takes into account or forestalls a later action

an anticipatory challenge brought for declaratory and injunctive relief

—L. H. Tribe

anticipatorily

-ˌti-sə-pə-ˈtōr-ə-lē

adverb