ward off
verb
warded off; warding off; wards off
: to avoid being hit by (something)
ward off a blow
—often used figurativelyI tried different remedies to ward off a cold.
Examples of ward off in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Mineral sunscreens such as zinc or titanium oxide ward off the Sun’s rays by forming a protective film that also absorbs most UV light, but reflects some of it.
—
Guy German, The Conversation, 18 June 2026
The maggots are thought to secrete various antibacterial compounds to ward off pathogenic bacteria and block biofilms from forming, overall preventing secondary infection.
—Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 17 June 2026
While not required as often during dry periods, this can be an effective way to ward off leaf spot caused by fungal infections.
—Emily Hayes, Martha Stewart, 16 June 2026
That's largely because of its acetic acid, which is powerful enough to destroy weeds and ward off some common pests and problems.
—Miranda Crowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for ward off
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Guy German, The Conversation, 18 June 2026
The maggots are thought to secrete various antibacterial compounds to ward off pathogenic bacteria and block biofilms from forming, overall preventing secondary infection.
—Beth Mole, ArsTechnica, 17 June 2026
While not required as often during dry periods, this can be an effective way to ward off leaf spot caused by fungal infections.
—Emily Hayes, Martha Stewart, 16 June 2026
That's largely because of its acetic acid, which is powerful enough to destroy weeds and ward off some common pests and problems.
—Miranda Crowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for ward off
Cite this Entry
“Ward off.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ward%20off. Accessed 19 Jun. 2026.
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