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Definition of avoidant

avoidant

/əˈvɔɪ.dənt/
a · void · ant
Plural:avoidants
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avoidant Lexical Profile

avoidant Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Characterized by a tendency to shy away from social interaction, emotional intimacy, or difficult situations, especially out of fear of rejection or criticism.

Example

"His avoidant behavior made it difficult for his colleagues to address workplace conflicts directly."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• noun

1

A person who exhibits avoidant behavior, an avoidant attachment style, or avoidant personality disorder.

Example

"The study examined how anxious individuals and avoidants communicate differently during relationship disagreements."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for avoidant

• Nearby Words

avoidable
avoidably
avoidance
avoidant
avoider
avon
avonian

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 20th century in clinical psychology by attaching the adjective-forming suffix '-ant' to the verb 'avoid', which entered Middle English via Anglo-French 'avoider' (to empty out or clear).

Cite this Entry

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