Deflect (Verb)

Meaning ¹

Turn from a straight course, fixed direction, or line of interest.

Classification

Verbs of walking, flying, swimming.

Synonyms

• Bend
• Turn Away

Related Words

• Deflection (noun)
• Deflexion (noun)
• Deflector (noun)

Meaning ²

Prevent the occurrence of; prevent from happening; "Let's avoid a confrontation"; "head off a confrontation"; "avert a strike".

Classification

Verbs of political and social activities and events.

Synonyms

• Debar
• Stave Off
• Forefend
• Obviate
• Avert
• Fend Off
• Head Off
• Avoid
• Forfend
• Ward Off

Hypernyms

• Prevent
• Foreclose
• Preclude
• Forestall

Meaning ³

Turn aside and away from an initial or intended course.

Classification

Verbs of walking, flying, swimming.

Related Words

• Deflection (noun)
• Deflective (adjective)
• Deflexion (noun)
• Deflector (noun)

Meaning ⁴

Impede the movement of (an opponent or a ball); "block an attack".

Classification

Verbs of fighting, athletic activities.

Synonyms

• Block
• Parry

Hypernyms

• Fence

Meaning ⁵

Draw someone's attention away from something; "The thief distracted the bystanders"; "He deflected his competitors".

Classification

Verbs of feeling.

Synonyms

• Distract

Hypernyms

• Disconcert
• Confuse
• Put Off