What does avail mean?
Avail is a versatile word that functions as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means either to make practical use of something — as in 'she availed herself of the company's training program' — or to serve as help or benefit to someone. As a noun, it denotes the usefulness or advantage gained through effort, most famously in the phrase 'to no avail,' meaning without success despite attempts. The word derives from the Old French 'valoir,' meaning 'to be worth,' sharing deep roots with words like 'value,' 'prevail,' and 'valid.' Though somewhat formal in tone today, avail remains a precise way to describe turning resources or opportunities to good effect, and its negative idioms elegantly capture the sense of effort that falls short of success.
To make use of; to turn something to advantage or benefit.
"Travelers should avail themselves of the hotel's complimentary shuttle service."
Often used reflexively as 'avail oneself of,' particularly in formal contexts.
Use or advantage; effectiveness toward achieving a goal.
"They searched the house thoroughly, but to no avail."
Most commonly found in fixed phrases like 'to no avail' or 'of little avail.'
The phrase 'to no avail' is one of the most common ways English speakers express futility — yet the verb 'avail' itself is fading from everyday speech.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of avail
Avail entered English in the late Middle Ages, borrowed from Old French 'valoir,' which meant 'to be strong, be worth,' ultimately tracing back to the Latin 'valere' ('to be strong or well'). This same Latin root gave rise to related English words including 'value,' 'valid,' 'prevail,' and 'available.' Over time, avail developed both transitive and reflexive uses ('avail oneself of') as well as noun uses expressing benefit or advantage.
Related word forms
How avail is actually used
'Avail' is somewhat formal in modern usage and appears most often in fixed expressions such as 'to no avail' or 'avail oneself of.' The reflexive construction 'avail oneself of' is common in formal writing but less so in casual conversation.
Easily confused with avail
'Prevail' means to triumph or prove superior in a struggle, while 'avail' means to make use of something or be useful.
'Avoid' means to keep away from something, whereas 'avail' means to make use of something.