dodge, parry, avoid
躱 centers on evading something coming toward you: dodging a physical blow, parrying an attack, or avoiding an unwanted situation.
躱 combines 身 (body) with 朶, which likely contributes the sound タ and may relate to a drooping or evading motion. The exact historical development is uncertain.
The body 身 moves aside from something drooping or hanging 朶, like ducking under a low branch to avoid it.
For タ, imagine dodging a sudden attack with a quick 'ta!' sound, like a sharp exhale as you parry: ta -> タ.
to dodge; to evade; to avoid; to sidestep