deflect Meaning & Definition
What Does Deflect Mean?
Deflect is a verb that means To make (something) deviate from its original path or position. It is also used to mean To touch the ball, often unwittingly, after a shot or a sharp pass, thereby making it unpredictable for the other players.
Quick Facts About Deflect
| Part of speech | verb |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | //dɪˈflɛkt// |
| Syllables | 1 |
| Synonyms | obviate, avert and avoid |
| Verb forms | deflects, deflecting, deflected |
Deflect Definition (Verb)
- To make (something) deviate from its original path or position.
- To touch the ball, often unwittingly, after a shot or a sharp pass, thereby making it unpredictable for the other players.
The defender deflected the cross into his own net.
- To deviate from an original path or position.
- To avoid addressing (questions, criticism, etc.).
The Prime Minister deflected some increasingly pointed questions by claiming he had an appointment.
- To divert (attention, etc.).
- To redirect culpability to avoid it.
Verb
- To make (something) deviate from its original path.
- (ball games) To touch the ball, often unwittingly, after a shot or a sharp pass, thereby making it unpredictable for the other players.
- To deviate from its original path.
Synonyms of Deflect
Antonyms of Deflect
No antonyms or near antonyms are listed by the available sources for this entry.
Deflect in a Sentence
The defender deflected the cross into his own net.
The Prime Minister deflected some increasingly pointed questions by claiming he had an appointment.
Word Forms & Grammar
deflect (third-person singular simple present deflects, present participle deflecting, simple past and past participle deflected)
Words That Rhyme With Deflect
Origin of Deflect
From Latin deflecto, from de- (“away”) + flecto (“to bend”).
How to Pronounce Deflect
You say deflect as //dɪˈflɛkt//. It has 1 syllable.
Questions People Ask About Deflect
What part of speech is deflect?
Deflect is a verb.
What is another word for deflect?
Words with a similar meaning to deflect include obviate, avert and avoid. See the full list of deflect synonyms and antonyms.
What is the past tense of deflect?
The past tense of deflect is deflected. The present participle is deflecting.