ward off Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. verb prevent the occurrence of; prevent from happening
    stave off; avert; debar; avoid; deflect; obviate; head off; forefend; fend off; forfend.
    • Let's avoid a confrontation
    • head off a confrontation
    • avert a strike
  2. verb avert, turn away, or repel
    • Ward off danger

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