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

Projection spans 30 to 150 inches, while Intelligent Instant Setup automatically handles autofocus, keystone correction, screen fit, and obstacle avoidance. —New Atlas, 27 Feb. 2026

There has also been an avoidance of taking big swings on defensive tackles early in drafts. —Jeff Zrebiec, New York Times, 26 Feb. 2026

Features can vary by model but typically GM and Nissan include lane keep assistance, blind spot monitoring, rear seat alert, pedestrian detection, forward and rear collision avoidance, road sign detection, and pre-emergency braking. —Scotty Reiss, Parents, 24 Feb. 2026

Washington — The House of Representatives is set to consider whether a collision avoidance system that supporters say could have prevented last year’s deadly midair collision near Washington should be required on every plane in the US. —Alexandra Skores, CNN Money, 24 Feb. 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