1
as in repels
to drive back
managed to stave off the invaders
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in prevents
to keep from happening by taking action in advance
the quartermaster staved off a shortage by requisitioning more than enough supplies
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
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Recent Examples of staves off
Made with Asics’ special ‘Puregel’ technology, the shoe has a cushy feel and shock absorption that staves off foot pain.
—
Jasmine Gomez,
Travel + Leisure,
11 May 2026
Health policy researchers and economists say providing Medicaid coverage to immigrants for preventive services and treatment of chronic health conditions staves off more costly care for patients down the road.
—
Arkansas Online,
6 Sep. 2025
Health policy researchers and economists say providing Medicaid coverage to immigrants for preventive services and treatment of chronic health conditions staves off more costly care for patients down the road.
—
Angela Hart,
Fortune,
5 Sep. 2025
Frequent tennis play improves bone density, which staves off fractures and osteoporosis.
—
Alexandra Moe,
The Atlantic,
24 Aug. 2025
Jasmine Gomez,
Travel + Leisure,
11 May 2026
Health policy researchers and economists say providing Medicaid coverage to immigrants for preventive services and treatment of chronic health conditions staves off more costly care for patients down the road.
—
Arkansas Online,
6 Sep. 2025
Health policy researchers and economists say providing Medicaid coverage to immigrants for preventive services and treatment of chronic health conditions staves off more costly care for patients down the road.
—
Angela Hart,
Fortune,
5 Sep. 2025
Frequent tennis play improves bone density, which staves off fractures and osteoporosis.
—
Alexandra Moe,
The Atlantic,
24 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for staves off
Verb
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Straw naturally repels water because its outer layer is coated with a naturally occurring wax.
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But basil also has a rich fragrance that repels an assortment of pests, including mosquitoes, flies, and even tomato hornworms.
Verb
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Outline a proposal, then schedule a brief meeting to align expectations with a manager, because clarity now prevents heavier repairs later.
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The active ingredient, proanthocyanidins, prevents UTIs by counteracting bacteria.
Verb
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Continue reading … SERVICE REFUSED — Backlash erupts after Florida parlor turns away veterans and active-duty members.
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Get it before this deal turns away from your doorstep.
Verb
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For now and unless Williams changes his mind again, the move averts a potential historic litigation where Washington planned to sue Williams over his plan to switch schools.
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The Corps project averts potential catastrophic flooding that could lay siege to about 475,000 residents, California and the nation, according to the government’s court documents.
Verb
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Sigmund Freud believed that every crush has a strand of disgust, that people are attracted to what repulses them.
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Charlie, though, is trying to keep them out of a country that thoroughly repulses him.
Verb
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Kara talks her out of it, and when Ruthye walks away, Kara turns back to Krem and stabs him multiple times with a sword.
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Dalot turns back inside, and then immediately looks to play over the high press.
Verb
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The lids are made with Rubbermaid’s BPA-free StainShield plastic, which resists odors and stains without warping in the dishwasher.
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This looser-fitting top sits right at the waistband and is made of a durable nylon and elastane blend that resists wear and tear (justifying the price point).
Cite this Entry
“Staves off.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/staves%20off. Accessed 2 Jul. 2026.
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