ward (off)

verb

Definition of ward (off)next
as in to deflect

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for ward (off)
  1. deflect
  2. hold off
  3. withstand
  4. resist
  5. oppose
  6. stand off
Verb
  • The author criticizes OpenAI's narrative as a marketing tactic, deflecting from its responsibility for inadequate test environments.
    — Lutz Finger, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026
  • When the opportunity arrives, Graves always seems to be in the correct position to knock down an open 3-pointer, deflect an opponent’s pass, grab a loose ball or snag a rebound.
    — Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 27 July 2026
Definition of deflect
Verb
  • Malnati will have to hold off a field that is stronger than usual in Detroit.
    — CBS News, CBS News, 31 July 2026
  • Until then, the Fed could decide to hold off on making significant changes to its benchmark interest rate, analysts say.
    — Rachel Barber, USA Today, 29 July 2026
Definition of hold off
Verb
  • If history is any guide, before the restrictions go into effect, the SAFE for Kids Act may have to withstand lawsuits, similar to those filed in other states that have aimed to crack down on social media.
    — Cayla Bamberger, New York Daily News, 1 Aug. 2026
  • Investing in overall lawn health can help homeowners cultivate a more resilient lawn fit to withstand extreme weather.
    — Abby Monteil, The Spruce, 1 Aug. 2026
Definition of withstand
Verb
  • Once there, give your eyes at least 20 minutes to adapt to the darkness and resist checking your phone.
    — Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026
  • The barrel-leg silhouette gives them a sleeker shape, while the mid-weight fabric feels soft and resists wrinkles.
    — Jeaneen Russell, PEOPLE, 2 Aug. 2026
Definition of resist
Verb
  • Some farmers cheered the change, including the industry’s principle advocacy organization, but at least some growers oppose it.
    — Lizzie Kane, Sacbee.com, 31 July 2026
  • Polling by the independent Levada Center shows that support for the actions of the Russian armed forces sits above 65 percent nationwide, with less than 25 percent of the population opposed.
    — Alexander Gabuev, Foreign Affairs, 31 July 2026
Definition of oppose
Verb
  • Hudgens plays Olivia, who runs the Who Let the Hot Dogs Out food stand off the highway between the two courses.
    — Peter White, Deadline, 17 July 2026
  • The video then cuts to the produce section of the store, where two officers stand off with the man who authorities say is Tabor, tackling him to the ground and handcuffing him.
    — Jazmin Alvarado, Los Angeles Times, 23 June 2026
Definition of stand off
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Browse Nearby Words

warding (off)
ward (off)
wardrobe
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ward (off).” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ward%20%28off%29. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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