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Definition of avert

avert

/əˈvɜːrt/
a · vert
Adjective:avertible
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Past Simple:averted
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Past Participle:averted
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Present Participle:averting
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avert Lexical Profile

avert Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To prevent or ward off an undesirable occurrence, danger, or crisis.

Example

"Quick diplomatic negotiations helped avert a major trade dispute between the two nations."

2

To turn away or direct aside (especially one's eyes, gaze, or thoughts).

Example

"She had to avert her eyes from the bright glare of the oncoming headlights."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for avert

• Nearby Words

averseness
aversion
aversive
avert
avertable
avian
aviary

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late Middle English period from Old French averter or directly from Latin avertere, meaning 'to turn away,' formed from ab- ('from, away') and vertere ('to turn').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Avert. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/avert
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