'avoidance' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'avoider,' where 'a-' meant 'away' and 'voider' meant 'to empty.'

'avoider' transformed into the Middle English word 'avoiden,' and eventually became the modern English word 'avoidance.'

Initially, it meant 'to empty or clear out,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'keeping away from something.'