stave off

Pronunciation:			steyv of
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WordNet Dictionary
	Definition:		[v]  prevent the occurrence of; prevent from happening; "Let's avoid a confrontation"; "head off a confrontation"; "avert a strike"
	Synonyms:		avert, avoid, debar, deflect, fend off, head off, obviate, ward off
	See Also:		forbid, foreclose, forestall, preclude, prevent