The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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deflect

verb

/dɪˈflɛkt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of deflect

To cause something to deviate or change direction, typically by bouncing off or redirecting its course.
"She tried to deflect his question by changing the subject."

Detailed meaning of deflect

When an object or force is deflected, it is diverted or turned away from its original path or target. This can be achieved by creating a barrier, surface, or obstacle that alters the trajectory of the object or force. Deflection can occur in various contexts, such as in physics, where a projectile is redirected by a surface, or in interpersonal communication, where someone deflects a question or criticism by shifting the focus or avoiding a direct response. It is often employed as a defensive strategy to avoid confrontation, evade responsibility, or protect oneself from harm. Overall, to deflect is to cause something to change direction or be redirected, either physically or figuratively, by intercepting its path or altering its course.

Example sentences containing deflect

1. The shield was able to deflect the incoming arrows.
2. She tried to deflect the blame onto someone else.
3. The politician skillfully deflected the reporter's probing questions.
4. The goalkeeper managed to deflect the ball away from the net.
5. He used humor to deflect the tension in the room.
6. The company issued a statement to deflect the negative publicity.

History and etymology of deflect

The verb 'deflect' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'deflectere,' where 'de' means 'away' or 'off,' and 'flectere' means 'to bend' or 'to turn.' Therefore, the etymology of 'deflect' conveys the notion of causing something to 'bend away' or 'turn off' from its original path or direction. This word accurately describes the action of diverting or changing the course of an object, often achieved by bouncing off or redirecting it. The Latin origins of 'deflect' emphasize the idea of redirection or deviation, making it a fitting term for describing such actions in various contexts, from deflecting a ball in sports to deflecting an argument in a conversation.

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Further usage examples of deflect

1. The clever comeback deflected the insult and left everyone laughing.
2. She attempted to deflect attention away from her mistakes.
3. The detective noticed how the suspect tried to deflect the conversation.
4. The diplomat skillfully deflected the controversial topic during the negotiation.
5. The windshield deflected the debris from hitting the driver.
6. He used his quick reflexes to deflect the punch.
7. The child's curiosity couldn't be deflected as he continued asking questions.
8. The mirror deflected the sunlight, creating a shimmering effect in the room.
9. The speaker tried to deflect criticism by highlighting their achievements.
10. The deflecting shield protected the soldiers from enemy gunfire.
11. The cat expertly deflected the dog's advances with swift movements.
12. She deflected the conversation to a more positive topic.
13. The strategic move helped deflect attention from their financial troubles.
14. The well-placed sign deflected pedestrians away from the construction zone.
15. He managed to deflect the blame onto his colleague.
16. The goalkeeper stretched out his hand to deflect the ball from the net.
17. The shield was designed to deflect incoming projectiles.
18. Mirrors can be used to deflect beams of light.
19. His quick wit allowed him to deflect the criticism with humor.
20. The politician skillfully used rhetoric to deflect attention from the scandal.
21. She used an umbrella to deflect the raindrops as she walked.
22. The fencer was able to deflect his opponent's thrust with a quick parry.
23. We need to deflect the asteroid's path to prevent it from colliding with Earth.
24. The magnetic field around the spacecraft helps to deflect charged particles.
25. By wearing sunglasses, you can deflect some of the sun's harsh rays from your eyes.