Which term means to render unnecessary?

The term that means to render unnecessary is "obviate." This word comes from the Latin "obviare," which means to prevent or to eliminate a need or a problem. When you obviate something, you remove the requirement or the necessity for it, often by addressing the underlying issue directly or creating solutions that prevent the situation from arising.

For instance, if a new safety measure is implemented, it could obviate the need for certain protective equipment, as the risk it was intended to mitigate is no longer present. Thus, the effect is that the previous necessity is eliminated.

Other options do not align with this definition. "Odious" refers to something that is extremely unpleasant; "malinger" means to avoid duty or work by pretending to be ill; and "obtuse" describes someone who is not quick to understand or perceive things. Each of these terms conveys a different meaning and does not relate to the concept of making something unnecessary.