stave off

verb

1. tr, adverb to avert or hold off (something undesirable or harmful), esp temporarily

   to stave off hunger

Idioms and Phrases

Keep or hold away, repel, as in The Federal Reserve Board is determined to stave off inflation . This metaphoric expression transfers beating something off with a staff or stave to nonphysical repulsion. [c. 1600]

Example Sentences

The Federal Reserve started reducing rates in September, saying lower borrowing costs were needed to keep the economy on track and stave off weakening in the labour market.

From BBC

He filled his stomach with water to stave off the hunger.

From Los Angeles Times

The good news for humanity is that people have the power to stop these mass extinctions and stave off the worst consequences of climate change.

From Salon

Mexico staved off a similar Trump threat over illegal migration in 2019.

From Los Angeles Times

Foods that are high in fat, proteins and fiber can help to stave off hunger for a while.

From Salon