deflection

noun

de·​flec·​tion di-ˈflek-shən How to pronounce deflection (audio)
dē-
1
: a turning aside or off course : deviation
2
: the departure of an indicator or pointer from the zero reading on the scale of an instrument

Examples of deflection in a Sentence

measuring the angle of deflection He scored with a deflection off another player's stick.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
As a corner, Hunter had 31 tackles, 11 pass deflections and four interceptions, anchoring Colorado’s defense. Jackson Thompson, Fox News, 15 Dec. 2024 In such cases, the new policy will require the officer to determine whether a warning or referral to the deflection or outreach team would be more appropriate or if enforcement action is warranted in the first place. Connor Giffin, The Courier-Journal, 13 Dec. 2024 As Andrews writes, asteroid deflection is the most successful tactic humanity has against asteroids. Joe Spring, Smithsonian Magazine, 9 Dec. 2024 Despite Tottenham’s move being sidetracked by Torres’ deflection, Konsa moves towards Sarr before trying to return to his initial position, which slightly distances him from Maddison. Ahmed Walid, The Athletic, 24 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for deflection 

Word History

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of deflection was in 1605

Dictionary Entries Near deflection

Cite this Entry

“Deflection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deflection. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

deflection

noun
de·​flec·​tion di-ˈflek-shən How to pronounce deflection (audio)
1
: a turning aside or deviation from a straight line
2
: the departure of an indicator or pointer from the zero reading on the scale of an instrument
deflect verb

More from Merriam-Webster on deflection

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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