AVERT Synonyms: 73 Similar and Opposite Words

avert

verb

ə-ˈvərt

Definition of avert

as in to prevent

to keep from happening by taking action in advance her careful planning averted disaster

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of avert Numerous governments across Central and Eastern Europe are taking steps to conserve electricity and avert an energy crisis as record low water levels on the Danube River have forced power plants to the brink of shutting down. — Justin Spike, Fortune, 3 Aug. 2026 One source said Netanyahu is highly skeptical that Hamas intends to disarm and believes instead that group is using the framework to buy time and avert another Israeli military campaign. — Tal Shalev, CNN Money, 3 Aug. 2026 The lack of a clear outcome meant both sides could claim success, averting escalation. — Erik Lin-Greenberg, Foreign Affairs, 31 July 2026 In 2026, Mattel is doubling down and averting any PR blunders with a Holiday Barbie that, by all accounts, looks genuinely gorgeous. — Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for avert

Recent Examples of Synonyms for avert

prevent

Verb

Highs in the mid-90s are expected in the Spokane area, though smoke might block out enough warming sunlight to prevent temperatures from getting quite as hotas forecast.

— Mary Gilbert, CNN Money, 6 Aug. 2026
The blacklist caused serious health problems, tore families apart, drove people to suicide, and prevented some potentially great films from ever being made.

— John Bleasdale, Variety, 5 Aug. 2026

Definition of prevent

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aversions

avert

averted

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“Avert.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/avert. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of avert

verb

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