to stay away from a person, place, or thing so you do not meet or touch it
During flu season, doctors advise people to avoid crowded buses.
The deer quickly changed direction to avoid a passing car on the road.
✦ From Middle English avoiden, from Old French esvuider “to empty out, clear away,” later “to keep away.”
to stop something bad or unwanted from happening to you or someone else
Sleeping early can help you avoid feeling tired at work.
She spoke softly to avoid waking the baby.
