elude
Meaning: to evade, escape
Usage: Despite an intense search, the robber continues to elude the police.
abscond
Meaning: to sneak away and hide
Usage: In the confusion, the super-spy absconded into the night with the secret plans.
eschew
Meaning: to shun, avoid
Usage: George hates the color green so much that he eschews all green food.
extricate
Meaning: to disentangle
Usage: Instead of trying to mediate between my brother and sister, I extricated myself from the family tension entirely and left the house for the day.
balk
Meaning: to stop, block abruptly
Usage: Edna’s boss balked at her request for another raise.