avoidance

noun

avoid·​ance ə-ˈvȯi-dᵊn(t)s 

1

obsolete

a

: an action of emptying, vacating, or clearing away

b

: outlet

2

: annulment sense 1

3

: an act or practice of avoiding or withdrawing from something

Synonyms

• cop-out
• dodging
• ducking
• eluding
• elusion
• escape
• eschewal
• eschewing
• evasion
• out
• shaking
• shunning

Examples of avoidance in a Sentence

a writer known for avoidance of sentimentality

a complete avoidance of sentimentality

Recent Examples on the Web

Such sentiments are hard to capture in polls but Harris’s enduring avoidance, or, perhaps, lack of imagination, may have dampened much of the enthusiasm about her campaign among many liberal voters. —Jay Caspian Kang, The New Yorker, 1 Nov. 2024

This statistic, though unsurprising given the historical roots of DEI initiatives in regulatory compliance and risk avoidance, underscores a critical truth: today's workplace has evolved, and employees demand more sincerity in approach. —Julie Kratz, Forbes, 27 Oct. 2024

These technologies allow for real-time updates, navigation, and even life-saving features like collision avoidance and automated braking, which make driving safer by assisting drivers with crucial decisions. —Lars Daniel, Forbes, 27 Oct. 2024

Nowhere has the trend toward avoidance and capitulation been more apparent than in the Harris/Walz presidential campaign itself. —Samantha Riedel, Them, 24 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

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

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