Synonyms of head off

head off

verb

as in to prevent

to keep from happening by taking action in advance

if we act quickly, we may still be able to head off disaster

Synonyms & Similar Words

• prevent
• avert
• stave off
• preclude
• avoid
• help
• obviate
• forestall
• escape
• provide
• interfere (with)
• anticipate
• ward (off)
• fend (off)
• make up (for)
• save
• compensate (for)
• shake
• evade
• thwart
• nullify
• deter
• neutralize
• hinder
• impede
• retard
• hamper
• offset
• stop
• balk
• deflect
• negate
• block
• prohibit
• elude
• shun
• stall
• frustrate
• forbid
• eschew
• foil
• circumvent
• counteract
• check
• bar
• counterbalance
• duck
• arrest
• inhibit
• dodge
• halt
• shirk
• checkmate
• baffle

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• aid
• assist
• facilitate
• ease
• forward
• smooth
• promote
• advance
• encourage
• further
• let
• leave
• permit
• foster
• cultivate
• abet
• allow
• unclog
• nurture

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of head off

Prince George is headed off to Eton come September, and on his very first day, the 12-year-old future king (who will have turned 13 by that point) will have a test to face. — Rachel Burchfield, InStyle, 30 June 2026

Much of the young cast remained in Hollywood, though some took breaks to experience young-adult milestones, like heading off to college. — Gillian Telling, PEOPLE, 29 June 2026

Reserving Lounge Chairs Planning to wake up early and claim lounge chairs in a prime location on the pool deck with your towels and personal belongings—and then head off to the fitness center, breakfast and to a cupcake decorating demonstration before making your way back to actually use them? — Jill Schildhouse, Southern Living, 27 June 2026

Ferdinand heads off to Fox Studios for his show with Corden, which puts him in a relaxed setting, beers on the table, talking about the day’s action. — Laurie Whitwell, New York Times, 25 June 2026