• Today's Word

Obviate

OB-vee-ayt

Definition

(verb) To remove or prevent the need for something by anticipating and addressing it.

Example

Installing motion sensors obviated the need for manual lighting controls.

Fun Fact

Obviate is a favorite in engineering, policy, and tech, where the goal is to solve issues before they arise. It differs from similar words like “prevent” or “avoid” by implying action taken early enough to render something unnecessary altogether. It’s problem-solving through preemption.