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

Each drone carries radar systems, optical cameras, and collision-avoidance artificial intelligence. —Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 7 May 2026

Dick conceded that there was some avoidance on his side, too. —Janet W. Lee, NPR, 7 May 2026

Venus in your 12th House can pull you toward rest or avoidance instead of action. —Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 4 May 2026

Some of the security measures around Putin detailed have been reported previously, or were widely presumed to be the case, including the intensive body searches, the Kremlin’s avoidance of smartphones and restriction of the president’s movements. —Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 4 May 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