\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.

\A*vert"\, v. i.
To turn away. [Archaic]
      Cold and averting from our neighbor's good. --Thomson.