from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Avert \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.
[1913 Webster]
When atheists and profane persons do hear of so many
discordant and contrary opinions in religion, it doth
avert them from the church. --Bacon.
[1913 Webster]
Till ardent prayer averts the public woe. --Prior.
[1913 Webster]