Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Obviate \Ob"vi*ate\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Obviated}; p. pr. &
   vb. n. {Obviating}.] [L. obviare; ob (see {Ob-}) + viare to
   go, fr. via way. See {Voyage}.]
   1. To meet in the way. [Obs.]

            Not to stir a step to obviate any of a different
            religion.                             --Fuller.

   2. To anticipate; to prevent by interception; to remove from
      the way or path; to make unnecessary; as, to obviate the
      necessity of going.

            To lay down everything in its full light, so as to
            obviate all exceptions.               --Woodward.