averted

(verb) prevent the occurrence of; prevent from happening. Synonyms: debar, forefend, forfend, obviate, deflect, avert, head off, stave off, fend off, avoid, ward off. Examples: "Let's avoid a confrontation." "Head off a confrontation." "Avert a strike."

(verb) turn away or aside. Synonyms: avert, turn away. Example: "They averted their eyes when the king entered."