Definition of divergencenext
1
as in divergency
a movement in different directions away from a common point a growing divergence of opinion about that U.S. president's place in history

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2
as in deviation
a turning away from a course or standard any divergence from the community's strict moral code was met with social ostracism

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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 divergence Why 23% Genetic Divergence Matters DNA analysis found the new species had at least 23% genetic divergence from other related geckos. Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 20 Feb. 2026 The divergence between Costco and peers like Target and Walmart underscores a broader split in corporate strategy in the Trump era. Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 13 Feb. 2026 The stunning moment marked a divergence of sorts for the two teams. CBS News, 9 Feb. 2026 The lack of a unified approach Europe’s resolve to defend sovereignty and territorial integrity cannot single-handedly erase the lingering divergences that exist in terms of handling Trump. Garret Martin, The Conversation, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for divergence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for divergence
Noun
  • Last month’s Salesman release deviated from the historic pair’s colorblocking ever so slightly with the midsole making greater use of red, but no such deviation is see on the sole of Awake’s (speckling excluded).
    Ian Servantes, Footwear News, 23 Feb. 2026
  • There may be slight deviations from the podcast audio.
    Bill Goodykoontz, AZCentral.com, 16 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The difference between the two teams in the table could be more than just one point after this weekend’s encounter.
    Graham Ruthven, New York Times, 28 Feb. 2026
  • Bridges later established the Ruby Bridges Foundation to promote respect and appreciation for people’s differences.
    Susan DeGrane, Chicago Tribune, 28 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • These are the 2026 contestants whose departures were highlighted in the episode (plus the recognizable faces USA TODAY spotted).
    KiMi Robinson, USA Today, 24 Feb. 2026
  • Parking is just a block away, which makes arrival and departure even more straightforward.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The diversity of influences continued throughout the record and the performances on Monday.
    Peter Larsen, Daily News, 25 Feb. 2026
  • According to Shapiro, probiotic foods—many of which also contain protein or fiber too—have the potential to improve digestion, reduce bloating, support immune health by strengthening gut barrier function, and promote microbial diversity.
    Michele Ross, SELF, 24 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Divergence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/divergence. Accessed 3 Mar. 2026.

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