1
general::
Avoid, as in After Jane told on them, they gave her a wide berth. This expression alludes to giving a vessel enough room to swing at anchor so as to avoid a collision. [Mid-1800s]
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): give someone or something a wide berth
Fig. to keep a reasonable distance from someone or something; to steer clear (of someone or something). (Originally referred to sailing ships.) • The dog we are approaching is very mean. Better give it a wide berth. • Give Mary a wide berth. She’s in a very bad mood.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs