Meaning & Definition of word "Avoid"

Avoid

/əˈvɔɪd/

verb:

  • 1. To keep away from or prevent from happening.
    • Example: She tried to avoid the rain by taking an umbrella.
  • 2. To prevent something from happening.
    • Example: He took measures to avoid any possible misunderstandings.
  • 3. To stay clear of or evade.
    • Example: The athlete made an effort to avoid injuries during the season.
  • 4. To refrain from doing something.
    • Example: You should avoid eating too much sugar for better health.

Etymology

From Middle English 'avoid' meaning 'to empty out, remove,' from Old French 'esvuidier' which means 'to empty.'

Common Phrases and Expressions

avoid something like the plague:

To deliberately stay away from something.

avoid eye contact:

To not look directly at someone.

avoid at all costs:

To do everything possible to stay away from something.

Related Words

evade:

To escape or avoid, especially through cleverness.

shun:

To avoid or reject deliberately.

circumvent:

To find a way around (an obstacle or an issue).

Slang Meanings of avoid

Meaning: Skip

Example Sentence: I'm just going to skip that party to avoid the drama.

Meaning: Duck

Example Sentence: He tried to duck the meeting because he didn't want to deal with the conflict.