avoidance
noun
avoid·ance
ə-ˈvȯi-dᵊn(t)s 
1
3
: an act or practice of avoiding or withdrawing from something
Examples of avoidance in a Sentence
a writer known for avoidance of sentimentality
a complete avoidance of sentimentality
Recent Examples on the Web
Monitoring and documentation requirements of releases are merely recommended, and avoidance and minimization of adverse impacts to animals, plants and the public are left up to the industry.
—
Chicago Tribune, 8 Feb. 2026
These physiological responses are now part of a wider conversation about rising instances of school avoidance among neurodiverse adolescents.
—Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 7 Feb. 2026
Across advanced economies, they have repeatedly been narrowed or even repealed after delivering disappointing revenue, tax avoidance, capital flight, and costly administrative battles.
—Veronique De Rugy, Oc Register, 5 Feb. 2026
His response makes Camilla’s avoidance all the more poignant.
—Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 5 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for avoidance
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Chicago Tribune, 8 Feb. 2026
These physiological responses are now part of a wider conversation about rising instances of school avoidance among neurodiverse adolescents.
—Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 7 Feb. 2026
Across advanced economies, they have repeatedly been narrowed or even repealed after delivering disappointing revenue, tax avoidance, capital flight, and costly administrative battles.
—Veronique De Rugy, Oc Register, 5 Feb. 2026
His response makes Camilla’s avoidance all the more poignant.
—Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 5 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for avoidance
Cite this Entry
“Avoidance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/avoidance. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationKids 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
E. S. Katkin & E. N. Murrayavoidance learning
especially
: an anticipatory response undertaken to avoid a noxious stimulus
conditioned avoidance in mice
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