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

Tucker’s own slow start could be a factor in opponents’ avoidance strategy with Ohtani. —Bill Plunkett, Oc Register, 3 Apr. 2026

Container lines have dealt with higher operating costs amid the mass avoidance of the Strait of Hormuz and the ensuing escalation in oil prices. —Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 2 Apr. 2026

There is a difference between principled disagreement and deliberate avoidance. —Jason D. Greenblatt, semafor.com, 1 Apr. 2026

Autofocus and automatic keystone correction are on by default, and options for obstacle avoidance and screen matching are also available. —M. David Stone, PC Magazine, 1 Apr. 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