'avoid' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'esvuidier,' where 'es-' meant 'out' and 'vuidier' meant 'to empty.'

'esvuidier' transformed into the Middle English word 'avoiden,' and eventually became the modern English word 'avoid.'

Initially, it meant 'to empty out,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to keep away from or stop oneself from doing something.'