n. [ L. anticipatio: cf. F. anticipation. ] 1. The act of anticipating, taking up, placing, or considering something beforehand, or before the proper time in natural order. [ 1913 Webster ] So shall my anticipation prevent your discovery. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. Previous view or impression of what is to happen; instinctive prevision; foretaste; antepast; as, the anticipation of the joys of heaven. [ 1913 Webster ] The happy anticipation of renewed existence in company with the spirits of the just. Thodey. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. Hasty notion; intuitive preconception. [ 1913 Webster ] Many men give themselves up to the first anticipations of their minds. Locke. [ 1913 Webster ] 4. (Mus.) The commencing of one or more tones of a chord with or during the chord preceding, forming a momentary discord. [ 1913 Webster ] Syn. -- Preoccupation; preclusion; foretaste; prelibation; antepast; pregustation; preconception; expectation; foresight; forethought. [ 1913 Webster ] | 
