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

Biden took a low-key approach to unveiling the news, eschewing a formal announcement in favor of having senior officials relay the decision to media outlets over the weekend.

From Los Angeles Times

Some public health advocates find merit in certain Kennedy stances, or at least say they are worth further scrutiny—several European countries eschew fluoridation, for example.

From Science Magazine

But Hochman, who endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris over the summer, has largely eschewed partisan politics, running as an independent with a “hard middle” approach to criminal justice.

From Los Angeles Times

Hochman, who is running as an independent, has largely eschewed partisan politics in the race other than to parry Gascón’s barbs and focused most of his ad spending on public safety.

From Los Angeles Times

If Palestinians had eschewed violence in favor of peaceful resistance and moral suasion, they probably would have had a viable state long ago.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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