This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
obviate
[ ob-vee-eyt ]
/ ˈɒb viˌeɪt /
Save This Word!
This shows grade level based on the word's complexity.
verb (used with object), ob·vi·at·ed, ob·vi·at·ing.
to anticipate and prevent or eliminate (difficulties, disadvantages, etc.) by effective measures; render unnecessary: to obviate the risk of serious injury.
QUIZ
WILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?
Smoothly step over to these common grammar mistakes that trip many people up. Good luck!
Question 1 of 7
Fill in the blank: I can’t figure out _____ gave me this gift.
Origin of obviate
OTHER WORDS FROM obviate
Words nearby obviate
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use obviate in a sentence
British Dictionary definitions for obviate
obviate
/ (ˈɒbvɪˌeɪt) /
verb
(tr) to avoid or prevent (a need or difficulty)
Derived forms of obviate
obviation, nounWord Origin for obviate
C16: from Late Latin obviātus prevented, past participle of obviāre; see obvious
usage for obviate
Only things that have not yet occurred can be obviated. For example, one can obviate a possible future difficulty, but not one that already exists
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012