stave off

verb

staved off; staving off; staves off

transitive verb

1

: to fend off

staving off creditors

2

: to ward off (something adverse) : forestall

trying to stave off disaster

Synonyms of stave off

• repel
• resist
• turn back
• fend (off)
• turn away
• repulse
• beat off

Examples of stave off in a Sentence

managed to stave off the invaders

the quartermaster staved off a shortage by requisitioning more than enough supplies

Recent Examples on the Web

National reporters, big GOP donors and the president himself have descended on Kansas as Republicans seek to stave off Hamilton’s challenge. — Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 22 Oct. 2026

At just 28 years old, and only 20 months removed from being named the Super Bowl MVP, Jalen Hurts is now on blood thinners to stave off what – without them – could be life-threatening blood clots in his lungs. — Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 19 Oct. 2026

But in the end, when Miami needed to the most, the Hurricanes came to life to stave off FSU’s upset bid. — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 18 Oct. 2026

Hillmon, Dream guard Jordin Canada and wing Rhyne Howard hit a layup, a jumper and free throws to stave off the Valkyries’ attack. — Lauren Williams, AJC.com, 18 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for stave off

• cerenkov
• ashraf
• checkoff
• cutoff
• falloff
• handoff
• kickoff
• layoff
• liftoff
• markoff
• markov
• payoff

Kids Definition

stave off

verb

: to force or keep away : fend off

stave off trouble