deflect
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪˈflɛkt/
KK: /dɪˈflɛkt/
transitive verb
Definition
To cause something to change direction or to turn away from its original path.
Example
The shield was able to deflect the arrows shot at him.
Tense Forms
Past: deflected
Past Participle: deflected
Conversation
Did you see how he tried to deflect the question during the interview?
Yeah, it was pretty obvious he was avoiding it.
I wonder if that strategy actually works for him.
Sometimes it does, but people usually catch on pretty quickly.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
divert
redirect
deflect
Antonyms
attract
converge
focus
Root Explanation
Deflect → It is formed from "de-" (meaning away) and "flectere" (meaning to bend). The word describes the action of bending something away from its original path or direction.
Memory Tip
Think of bending something 'away' ('de-') from its original path ('flectere') — that's why deflect means to cause something to change direction.
Visually Confused Words
defect
redeflect
reflect
exflect
elect
delectus
defector
defecate