turn away

verb

turned away; turning away; turns away
Synonyms of turn awaynext

transitive verb

1
a
: to refuse admittance or acceptance to
b
: to send away : reject, dismiss
c
: repel
2
: deflect sense 2, avert

intransitive verb

: to start to go away : depart

Synonyms of turn away

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Examples of turn away in a Sentence

using tree branches, the campers were able to turn away the charging fox, which was apparently rabid
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.
Sprague told the jury that Clancy was never turned away from mental health care, but that in fact Clancy refused help. — Sumiko Corley, NBC news, 27 Aug. 2026 This summer, Whatley’s campaign barred journalists from mainstream and left-leaning outlets from events, while Cooper’s campaign turned away staffers from two conservative outlets, but local coverage focused more heavily on Whatley. — David A. Graham, The Atlantic, 27 Aug. 2026 The guide would include information about candidates, how to vote and what to do if you're turned away from the polls. — Hayleigh Colombo, IndyStar, 27 Aug. 2026 After a fan interfered with the ball, resulting in an automatic out, Bericoto turned away to avoid being hit in the face but twisted his knee. — Curtis Pashelka, Mercury News, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for turn away

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of turn away was in the 13th century

Rhymes for turn away

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Browse Nearby Words

turn around and (do something)
turn away
turn back
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Turn away.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/turn%20away. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

turn away

verb
: to refuse to let in : send away
all the seats were sold and a large crowd had to be turned away
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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