Avert (&unr_;), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Averted; p. pr. & vb. n. Averting.] [L. avertere; a, ab + vertere to turn: cf. OF. avertir. See Verse, n.] To turn aside, or away; as, to avert the eyes from an object; to ward off, or prevent, the occurrence or effects of; as, how can the danger be averted? “To avert his ire.” Milton.
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When atheists and profane persons do hear of so many discordant and contrary opinions in religion, it doth avert them from the church. Bacon.
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Till ardent prayer averts the public woe. Prior.
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