deflect

(verb)

verb

1. prevent the occurrence of; prevent from happening

Similar word(s): avert, avoid, debar, forefend, forfend, obviate

Definition categories: social, forbid, foreclose, forestall, preclude, prevent

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

Similar word(s): bend

Definition categories: motion, turn

3. turn aside and away from an initial or intended course

Definition categories: motion, turn

4. draw someone's attention away from something

- He deflected his competitors

Similar word(s): distract

Definition categories: emotion, confuse, disconcert, flurry

5. impede the movement of (an opponent or a ball)

Similar word(s): block, parry

Definition categories: competition, fence

Sentences with deflect as a verb:

- The Prime Minister deflected some increasingly pointed questions by claiming he had an appointment.