averse
UK: əˈvɜːs | US: əˈvɜːrs
adj. having a strong dislike or opposition to something
adj. (archaic) turned away or in the opposite direction
The word "averse" originates from Latin aversus, the past participle of avertere ("to turn away"). The prefix a- (from ab-) means "away," and verse comes from vertere ("to turn"). This reflects the core idea of turning away from something, either physically or metaphorically (as in dislike). Over time, the meaning shifted from literal turning to a figurative sense of opposition or reluctance.
She was averse to taking risks in her investments.
Many people are averse to change, preferring familiar routines.
His averse reaction to the proposal surprised the team.
The cat was averse to being held by strangers.
Historically, the term described a shield held averse (turned outward) in battle.