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 of avoidance

• escape
• evasion
• dodging

Examples of avoidance in a Sentence

a writer known for avoidance of sentimentality

a complete avoidance of sentimentality

Recent Examples on the Web

Others retreat into passive defensiveness, hiding their true feelings behind politeness, avoidance or quiet resentment. — Hylke Faber, Forbes.com, 25 Sep. 2026

Rather, SpaceX has significantly lowered the probability threshold to trigger a collision avoidance maneuver. — Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 23 Sep. 2026

High-intensity interval training and long-duration intense cardio spike cortisol significantly, and doing them too often without recovery can keep the hormone elevated, but rest and frequency matter more than avoidance. — Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 22 Sep. 2026

Family offices, which are especially sensitive to their reputations, may be especially wary of being named in a potential tax-avoidance scandal. — Robert Frank, CNBC, 11 Sep. 2026

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