stave

[steyv] / steɪv /

VERB

prevent

Synonyms

STRONGEST

anticipate avert avoid counteract foil forestall halt hold off preclude put an end to rule out thwart ward off

STRONG

arrest baffle balk bar block check chill cool cork counter dam debar forbid forfend frustrate hamper hinder impede inhibit intercept interdict interrupt limit obstruct obviate prohibit repress restrain restrict retard stop ward

WEAK

defend against head off hold back keep lid on nip in the bud put a stop to shut out stave off turn aside

Antonyms

STRONGEST

aid assist forward help support

STRONG

abet advance allow approve continue encourage expedite facilitate free heat let go liberate open permit promote push release unblock warm

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.

Now, concerns have grown that the country may not be able to stave off another economic crisis.

From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026

The enemy will likely take his words seriously and prepare to stave off his threats.

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

Tokyo imposed caps on fuel and electricity prices to stave off recession after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, even though Brent oil hung above $100 a barrel for more than four months, Thieliant says.

From Barron's • Mar. 26, 2026

The danger is that the infected body cannot stave off fever, headaches or other basic illnesses.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

He did not stir; he lay still, feeling that by being still he would stave off feeling and thinking, and that was what he wanted above all right now.

From "Native Son" by Richard Wright

Vocabulary lists containing stave

This Week In Words: August 17–23, 2019

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Music - Middle School

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

"The Tragedy of Macbeth," Vocabulary from Act 5

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!