Thesaurus results for DEFLECT

deflect

verb

di-ˈflekt

Definition of deflect

as in to turn

to change the course or direction of (something) the wind deflected the Frisbee just as I was about to lunge for it

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of deflect For capable enemy forces like China, this would mean the B-52 would need supporting assets to either deflect attention away from them or directly protect them. — Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 11 Oct. 2026 Indeed, many have credited Lee Krasner with deflecting Pollock’s attention from Benton and focusing it on the great modern masters. — Barbara Rose, Vogue, 11 Oct. 2026 The Argentine first fired a shot at the top of the box that was deflected. — Miami Herald, 11 Oct. 2026 In the final seconds of the period, Schenn attempted a cross-ice pass to Kyle Palmieri at the back post, but the puck deflected off Lightning defenseman Erik Cernak and into the net for a power-play goal that tied it at 3. — ABC News, 10 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for deflect

Recent Examples of Synonyms for deflect

Verb

He’s handcuffed to this stupid project, and swaths of people have instantly turned their back on him without knowing any of the facts.

— Payton Turkeltaub, Variety, 13 Oct. 2026
By July, the side project turned into a full-time job when MLB hired Weingardt as a principal product manager to explore changes to its flagship app.

— Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 13 Oct. 2026

Definition of turn

Verb

The transfers have allowed the Senate GOP group to support Paxton without diverting resources away from Republicans in other competitive races across the country.

— ABC News, ABC News, 16 Oct. 2026
Cargo on ships that have diverted away from the Hormuz is backing up at the region’s alternative gateways.

— Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of divert

Verb

Mindfulness or an absorbing activity can redirect attention from repetitive thoughts to the present.

— ABC News, ABC News, 17 Oct. 2026
To cover the cost increases out of pocket, trucking firms have drawn down savings, redirected spending away from maintenance, or halted purchases of fuel-efficient trucks.

— Jason Ma, Fortune, 16 Oct. 2026

Definition of redirect

Verb

Now imagine whipping your phone out after work, telling the world about it, and landing a brand deal worth $10K or more.

— Orianna Rosa Royle, Fortune, 15 Oct. 2026
Now imagine the same hot and dry conditions, but with the Santa Anas whipping at 40 miles an hour.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026

Definition of whip

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deflations

deflect

deflected

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“Deflect.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deflect. Accessed 19 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of deflect

verb

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