A*vert" (?), 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.
When atheists and profane persons do hear of so many discordant and contrary opinions in religion, it doth avert them from the church.
Bacon.
Till ardent prayer averts the public woe.
Prior.
© Webster 1913.
A*vert", v. i.
To turn away.
[Archaic]
Cold and averting from our neighbor's good.
Thomson.
© Webster 1913.