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

Ten vessels were identified as allegedly providing logistical cover, detection avoidance and, in one case, direct cocaine transport as part of the scheme. — Richard Escobedo, CBS News, 20 Aug. 2026

Madelyn also has pathological demand avoidance, like Jack Davis, and sensory processing disorder, a neurological condition. — Rebecca Noel, Charlotte Observer, 19 Aug. 2026

Before Starlink, a typical satellite would do this three or four times a year, says Zeno Pavanello, a collision-avoidance expert at the Polytechnic University of Milan. — Jonathan O'Callaghan, Scientific American, 18 Aug. 2026

Better knowledge of where spacecraft and debris are located could help with space-traffic monitoring and collision avoidance, while autonomous position determination could reduce dependence on ground infrastructure. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 17 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