The clue “Head off” has a track record in crosswords, and these answers reflect what editors and solvers have accepted repeatedly when this clue appeared in similar contexts.
Answers:
- DEPART
- AVERT
- FORESTALL
- PREVENT
Synonyms and Definitions
DEPART
- Synonyms: deviate, digress, diverge, go, go away, leave, part, pull up stakes, quit, set forth, set off, set out, sidetrack, start, start out, straggle, take leave, take off, vary
AVERT
- Synonyms: avoid, debar, deflect, fend off, forefend, forfend, obviate, stave off, turn away, ward off
FORESTALL
- Synonyms: anticipate, counter, forbid, foreclose, foresee, preclude, prevent
PREVENT
- Synonyms: forestall, keep