1. To reject, to shun, to stay away: Because of her sensitive skin, Geraldine tries to avoid sitting in the sun.
2. To keep away from, to stay out of the way of someone or something: Lauren's former husband now avoids her whenever they happen to be in the same place.

Margery, a high school student, manages to avoid doing the dishes by claiming she has to do her homework.

3. To prevent the occurrence of; to stop from happening: If at all possible, people should avoid repeating the same mistakes when investing their money in those companies that are unable to maintain reasonable profits.
4. To refrain or to stop doing something: Nations should try to avoid starting so many wars with each other.
5. To resist, to turn down, or to deliberately stay away from certain foods or beverages: According to the doctor during Carol's diet, she should avoid eating solid food, however liquids would be all right.