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)
Definition categories: competition, fence
Sentences with deflect as a verb:
- The Prime Minister deflected some increasingly pointed questions by claiming he had an appointment.