divergent

Definition of divergentnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word divergent different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of divergent are different, disparate, diverse, and various. While all these words mean "unlike in kind or character," divergent implies movement away from each other and unlikelihood of ultimate meeting or reconciliation.

went on to pursue divergent careers

When would different be a good substitute for divergent?

While the synonyms different and divergent are close in meaning, different may imply little more than separateness but it may also imply contrast or contrariness.

different foods

When might disparate be a better fit than divergent?

The meanings of disparate and divergent largely overlap; however, disparate emphasizes incongruity or incompatibility.

disparate notions of freedom

When is diverse a more appropriate choice than divergent?

The words diverse and divergent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, diverse implies both distinctness and marked contrast.

such diverse interests as dancing and football

Where would various be a reasonable alternative to divergent?

The synonyms various and divergent are sometimes interchangeable, but various stresses the number of sorts or kinds.

tried various methods

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of divergent Estrangement is born of abuse, addiction, mental illness, divergent values, abandonment, and myriad other reasons, sometimes in combination. Literary Hub, 28 Apr. 2026 In the latest effort to resolve the issue, scientists at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) spent the last decade replicating one of the most divergent recent experimental results. ArsTechnica, 23 Apr. 2026 What could these vegetables all have in common that gives each such a transformative edge in divergent recipes? Chris Morocco, Bon Appetit Magazine, 8 Apr. 2026 Conflicting signals have set up a week in which investors are forced to position for starkly divergent outcomes. Anniek Bao, CNBC, 6 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for divergent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for divergent
Adjective
  • Notably, Bauhinia blakeana is a sterile hybrid, resulting from the cross-pollination of two different plant varieties.
    Pauline J. Yao, Artforum, 2 May 2026
  • Those two would be no different.
    Chantz Martin, FOXNews.com, 2 May 2026
Adjective
  • Since 1992, Ronnie has been the captain of this distinctive part of New Orleans’ culinary history.
    George Motz, Southern Living, 6 May 2026
  • The beachside Beauvallon Sur Mer, together with its lounge and rooftop, was created by interior architect Dorothée Delaye—the creative known for infusing hotels with a distinctive French flair.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 May 2026
Adjective
  • But rollout varies sharply across industries, and leaders face similar yet distinct questions about what to assess before deployment, what to govern during it, and which companies are already navigating it well.
    Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Fortune, 2 May 2026
  • The researchers took ordinary metal rings and precisely shaped them into specific patterns designed to produce distinct ultrasonic frequencies when struck.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 2 May 2026
Adjective
  • The German owner of Stoll reported its booth received positive feedback for sport shoe solutions, composite innovations and performance warp knits, with a portfolio showcasing the diverse applications of warp knitting technology in Technical Textiles.
    Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 7 May 2026
  • The art industry comprises an incredibly diverse tapestry of experts in all sorts of professions.
    The Editors of ARTnews, Robb Report, 7 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Divergent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/divergent. Accessed 8 May. 2026.

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