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

By contrast, being confident that the other person’s belief was simply different – not wrong – did not predict avoidance. — Andras Molnar, The Conversation, 13 Aug. 2026

Several consumer-grade DJI drones, including the Air 3S, Avata 360, Mini 5 Pro, and Neo 2, use LiDAR for obstacle avoidance and are likely to be affected. — Jim Fisher, PC Magazine, 10 Aug. 2026

But the Court requires only four Justices to grant a case, and Brett Kavanaugh, whom Roberts had hoped would back his strategy of prudent avoidance, wouldn’t go along. — Margaret Talbot, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2026

The article urges leaders to address issues directly, provide clear feedback, and prioritize ethical conduct over easy avoidance, emphasizing that true leadership means doing what's right, not what's convenient. — Jason Walker Psyd, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 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