avoidance

noun

avoid·ance ə-ˈvȯi-dᵊn(t)s

Synonyms of avoidance

obsolete

: an action of emptying, vacating, or clearing away

: outlet

: annulment sense 1

: an act or practice of avoiding or withdrawing from something

Examples of avoidance in a Sentence

a writer known for avoidance of sentimentality a complete avoidance of sentimentality

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

According to the Government Accountability Office (GAO), the upgrade is intended to support mission-essential navigation and weather avoidance while improving the aircraft’s capabilities for both conventional and nuclear missions. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 27 Aug. 2026 Delaying a medical appointment is a common response to feeling stressed about what’s going on with your body, according to a 2021 study on health care avoidance. — Glamour, 24 Aug. 2026 But as Friebe learned, avoidance also can be highly costly, both practically and by taking up energy that could be used for other things, Saripalli added. — Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2026 What materialized out of that avoidance tactic was the best-selling 12-inch single in history. — Kyle Eustice, SPIN, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for avoidance

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler

The first known use of avoidance was in the 14th century

See more words from the same century

Cite this Entry

Style

“Avoidance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/avoidance. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

avoidance

noun

avoid·ance ə-ˈvȯid-ᵊn(t)s

: the act or an instance of avoiding something

Medical Definition

avoidance

noun

avoid·ance ə-ˈvȯid-ᵊn(t)s

often attributive

: the act or practice of keeping away from or withdrawing from something undesirable

reinforced by escape or avoidance of electric shock—E. S. Katkin & E. N. Murray

avoidance learning

especially : an anticipatory response undertaken to avoid a noxious stimulus

conditioned avoidance in mice

avoidance

noun

Synonyms of avoidance

Examples of avoidance in a Sentence

Word History

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Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

Medical Definition

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