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.

When a conjunction is probable, SSA/STC service providers alert the operators involved, who then decide whether to undertake a collision-avoidance maneuver. — David Zamora, Space.com, 23 Oct. 2026 MacIntosh also points out that the fecal avoidance experiment bears little connection to how the initial outbreak spread, through bodily fluids transmitted through scratches or bites. — Jonathan Lambert, NPR, 23 Oct. 2026 Some core symptoms of anxiety and depression, such as avoidance and a lack of motivation, can be seen as the results of a brain stuck in the dark room, according to Friston. — Maia Szalavitz, Scientific American, 20 Oct. 2026 The company’s ev1 resembles a power wheelchair but operates like an autonomous vehicle, with 360-degree sensors that provide proactive collision avoidance and smart driving capabilities. — Matt Alderton, Time, 15 Oct. 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 27 Oct. 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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