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

Other Word Forms

• eschewal noun
• eschewer noun
• uneschewed 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

Gratitude seems like an appropriate response to this short and heartfelt work, which further develops a vision of Americanness that eschews the familiar values of progress, mobility and power.

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They eschewed the opportunity to acquire big-name arms in favor of a collection of pitchers on the fringes of the market with plenty of upside—but even more question marks.

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Guerrero Jr. eschewing his chance at free agency this upcoming winter and emphatically choosing Canada as his forever team instantly transformed him into a national hero from Newfoundland to the Yukon.

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While mostly eschewing texts in favor of audio and visual storytelling, exhibits are crammed into too small a space.

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McDonald’s reported in August that it’s gaining more middle-class diners as they eschew pricier restaurant options, while lower-income customers are showing up less frequently.

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Related Words

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