obviate
verb
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Obviate derives from the Late Latin obviare (meaning "to meet or withstand") and the Latin obviam (meaning "in the way") and is also an ancestor of our adjective obvious. Obviate has a number of synonyms in English, including prevent, preclude, and avert; all of these words can mean "to hinder or stop something." When you prevent or preclude something, you put up an insurmountable obstacle. In addition, preclude often implies that a degree of chance was involved in stopping an event. Obviate generally suggests the use of intelligence or forethought to ward off trouble. Avert always implies that a bad situation has been anticipated and prevented or deflected by the application of immediate and effective means.
Examples of obviate in a Sentence
Chris Doyle, Hartford Courant, 2 Apr. 2025
The illustrations seem to have obviated the need for a court painter: now Trump has dozens if not hundreds of people to conjure flattering representations of him on social media.
—Katy Waldman, New Yorker, 26 Apr. 2025
That obviates your basic hedonistic predilection / For a rhythmic stroking of your fur to demonstrate affection.
—Ashley Belanger, Ars Technica, 19 Mar. 2025
Scott’s full-body acting and wide-spectrum voice has obviated the need.
—Jesse Green, New York Times, 19 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for obviate
Cite this Entry
“Obviate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/obviate. Accessed 24 May. 2025.
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obviate
verb
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