eschew

[ es-choo ]

verb (used with object)

1. to abstain or keep away from; shun; avoid:

   to eschew evil.

   Synonyms: forgo, boycott, circumvent

eschew

/ ɪsˈtʃuː /

verb

1. tr to keep clear of or abstain from (something disliked, injurious, etc); shun; avoid

Derived Forms

• esˈchewal, noun
• esˈchewer, noun

Other Words From

• es·chewal noun
• es·chewer noun
• unes·chewed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of eschew¹

1300–50; Middle English eschewen < Old French eschiver, eschever < Germanic; compare Old High German sciuhen, German scheuchen, shy ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of eschew¹

C14: from Old French eschiver, of Germanic origin; compare Old High German skiuhan to frighten away; see shy ¹, skew

Example Sentences

When everything is a click away from being at your doorstep in two days or less, it’s easy to eschew the in-person shopping experience, especially during stressful times like the holidays.

From Slate

Still, those companies most associated with the phenomenon are trying to diversify their offerings to eschew the label of fast fashion and all its negative connotations.

From Los Angeles Times

While some of us found ways to help, others took it as an opportunity to eschew their responsibilities.

From Los Angeles Times

But Reynolds is among a small, and shrinking, fraternity of experienced aviators willing to eschew the relative luxury and high pay offered by large passenger airlines or private jet companies — think crisp white shirts and first-class lounges — for the hot, dirty, dangerous work of aerial firefighting.

From Los Angeles Times

In honor of my ancestors, I eschew steps like sanding and priming.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• abandon
• avoid
• forgo
• forswear
• renounce
• shun
• shy away from
• swear off