avert

[uh-vurt]

verb (used with object)

1. to turn away or aside.

   to avert one's eyes.

2. to ward off; prevent.

   to avert evil;

   to avert an accident.

avert

/ əˈvɜːt /

verb

1. to turn away or aside

   to avert one's gaze

2. to ward off; prevent from occurring

   to avert danger

Other Word Forms

• averter noun
• avertible adjective
• avertable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of avert¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Middle French avertir, ultimately derived from Latin āvertere, equivalent to ā- a- ⁴ + vertere “to turn”

Word History and Origins

Origin of avert¹

C15: from Old French avertir, from Latin āvertere; see _averse

Example Sentences

Ms Yadav says she learnt the art of interpreting cues, anticipating problems and reacting in real time to avert crises.

From BBC

A group of leading experts on the Colorado River say Western states urgently need to cut water use to avert a deepening crisis.

From Los Angeles Times

YouTube TV and NBCUniversal announced a new distribution agreement Thursday, averting a blackout that could have interrupted programming routines for millions of customers.

From Los Angeles Times

With the GOP controlling the White House and both chambers of Congress, pressure on Democrats to avert a shutdown will be tremendous.

From Salon

That triggered a mechanism giving Iran 30 days to find a diplomatic solution to avert renewed sanctions.

From BBC

Related Words

• avoid 
• deter 
• fend off www.thesaurus.com
• foil 
• forestall 
• halt 
• preclude 
• prevent 
• rule out 
• ward off