obviate

[ ob-vee-eyt ]
/ ˈɒb viˌeɪt /
SEE SYNONYMS FOR obviate ON THESAURUS.COM

verb (used with object), ob·vi·at·ed, ob·vi·at·ing.

to anticipate and prevent or eliminate (difficulties, disadvantages, etc.) by effective measures; render unnecessary: to obviate the risk of serious injury.

Origin of obviate

1590–1600; < Latin obviātus, past participle of obviāre to act contrary to, derivative of obvius; see obvious, -ate1

OTHER WORDS FROM obviate

WORDS THAT MAY BE CONFUSED WITH obviate

ameliorate obviate vitiate

Words nearby obviate

obumbrate, obv, obverse, obversion, obvert, obviate, obvious, obviously, obvolute, obwalden, oc

Words related to obviation

interruption, deterrence, halt, blockage, stoppage, preclusion, interception, prohibition, obstruction, obstacle, avoidance, hindrance, impediment, determent, thwarting, inhibitor

British Dictionary definitions for obviation

obviate
/ (ˈɒbvɪˌeɪt) /

verb

(tr) to avoid or prevent (a need or difficulty)

Derived forms of obviate

obviation, noun

Word Origin for obviate

C16: from Late Latin obviātus prevented, past participle of obviāre; see obvious

usage for obviate

Only things that have not yet occurred can be obviated. For example, one can obviate a possible future difficulty, but not one that already exists