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

• cop-out
• dodging
• ducking
• eluding
• elusion
• escape
• eschewal
• eschewing
• evasion
• out
• shaking
• shunning

Examples of avoidance in a Sentence

a writer known for avoidance of sentimentality

a complete avoidance of sentimentality

Recent Examples on the Web

Organizational Consequences Of Dysregulation When leaders consistently model unregulated behavior—whether through avoidance, defensiveness or outbursts—the effects permeate the organization. —Andriana Eliadis, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025

The rest are basically asking teams not to be too terrible in categories like clutch hitting, home run avoidance on the mound, contact hitting and speed. —Neil Paine, New York Times, 17 June 2025

In smaller yachts, Boston Whaler will roll out similar technology for collision avoidance on its 405 Conquest, supplemented by an autonomous-docking feature that takes over in certain situations. —Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 14 June 2025

Regular episodes can also lead to anxiety around sleep and then avoidance of sleep, Jalal said. —Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 8 June 2025

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