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Definitions

avert

[uh-vurt] / əˈvɜrt /
VERB
thwart; avoid by turning away
Synonyms
STRONGEST
avoid deter fend off foil forestall halt preclude prevent rule out ward off
STRONG
deflect divert frustrate shunt turn
WEAK
look away shove aside stave off turn aside turn away
Antonyms
STRONGEST
aid allow assist help support

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

There lies the nub of the dilemma for Qatar and the five other Gulf states facing the brunt of the backlash from a war they tried to avert through diplomacy.

From Salon • Mar. 21, 2026

A large digital clock appeared at the start of each episode, with bright numerals showing the current time in 24-hour format, as Bauer raced against the clock to avert disaster.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 16, 2026

If this France team play to their potential, whatever England do will not be enough to avert a fourth straight defeat.

From BBC • Mar. 14, 2026

The UN rights chief voiced alarm Friday at the deteriorating situation in South Sudan, calling for "urgent action" to avert a return to full-scale civil war.

From Barron's • Feb. 27, 2026

I avert my gaze and still my body.

From "You Bring the Distant Near" by Mitali Perkins