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

The 24-year-old took a puck to the head off the stick of Dallas Stars forward Sam Steel during the final minute of the second period of each team's preseason finale Friday night. — CBS News, 29 Sep. 2026

In an emotional night, fans packed Mohegan Sun Arena to watch their team’s final game before heading off to Houston for the 2027 season. — Jessica Hill, Hartford Courant, 25 Sep. 2026

From that central hive, passengers can head off to, say, the two-story beach club with dining at water level (and space for 24). — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 25 Sep. 2026

After the nuptials, the newlyweds headed off on a honeymoon in Llandudno, a seaside resort on the north coast of Wales. — Erin Clack, PEOPLE, 24 Sep. 2026