The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 5 letter word FANCY
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
F
A
N
C
Y
More clues leading to the result FANCY
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Avoiding engagements" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case avoiding engagements = fancy.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does FANCY mean?
FANCY noun- The imagination.
- An image or representation of anything formed in the mind.
- An opinion or notion formed without much reflection.
- A whim.
- Love or amorous attachment.
- The object of inclination or liking.
- Any sport or hobby pursued by a group.
- The enthusiasts of such a pursuit.
- A diamond with a distinctive colour.
- That which pleases or entertains the taste or caprice without much use or value.
- A sort of love song or light impromptu ballad.
- In the game of jacks, a style of play involving additional actions (contrasted with plainsies).
- Decorative.
- Of a superior grade.
- Executed with skill.
- Unnecessarily complicated.
- Extravagant; above real value.
- In a fancy manner; fancily.
- To appreciate without jealousy or greed.
- Would like
- To be sexually attracted to.
- To imagine, suppose.
- To form a conception of; to portray in the mind.
- To have a fancy for; to like; to be pleased with, particularly on account of external appearance or manners.
- To breed (animals) as a hobby.