eschew

[ es-choo ]

verb (used with object)

1. to abstain or keep away from; shun; avoid:

   to eschew evil.

   Synonyms: forgo, boycott, circumvent

eschew

/ ɪsˈtʃuː /

verb

1. tr to keep clear of or abstain from (something disliked, injurious, etc); shun; avoid

Derived Forms

• esˈchewer, noun
• esˈchewal, noun

Other Words From

• es·chewal noun
• es·chewer noun
• unes·chewed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of eschew¹

1300–50; Middle English eschewen < Old French eschiver, eschever < Germanic; compare Old High German sciuhen, German scheuchen, shy ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of eschew¹

C14: from Old French eschiver, of Germanic origin; compare Old High German skiuhan to frighten away; see shy ¹, skew

Example Sentences

Of all the female celebrities to eschew the feminist label, Susan Sarandon seemed a most unlikely candidate.

From The Daily Beast

Stella McCartney has long been known to eschew animal-derived materials in her designs.

From The Daily Beast

Like Americans did when they elected Barack Obama, we should eschew our old shibboleths and forge ahead on a revolutionary path.

From The Daily Beast

You eschew ostentation when times are good, and you pay your fair share of the cost when times are bad.

From The Daily Beast

Generally speaking, I eschew Super Bowl parties, and for two reasons.

From The Daily Beast

These anchorites did not eschew social enjoyment, but held little love feasts.

From Project Gutenberg

Danger will I eschew and a pretty maid shall hold me no longer than it takes to give her a kiss in passing.

From Project Gutenberg

He laughed again to tears; but Mr. Green soberly resolved that he would eschew the capping talk of travel.

From Project Gutenberg

This I thee counsel eighthly: that thou guard thee against evil, and eschew deceit.

From Project Gutenberg

He must eschew all such vanities as white trousers and well-cut boots.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• abandon
• avoid
• forgo
• forswear
• renounce
• shun
• shy away from
• swear off