deflection

noun

de·​flec·​tion di-ˈflek-shən 

dē-

1

: the act of changing or causing to change direction

2

: the departure of an indicator or pointer from the zero reading on the scale of an instrument

Synonyms of deflection

• deviation
• departure

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

On Chawinga’s breakthrough goal, she was positioned well for a deflection off Boston’s keeper. —Jeff Rosen, Kansas City Star, 30 May 2026

It’s been presented annually since 2016-17, and the recipient is determined by a statistical formula incorporating the metrics of deflections, loose balls recovered, charges drawn, screen assists, contested shots and box outs. —Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 28 May 2026

Not West lining up to throw Ben under the bus…hello, deflection! —Emma Specter, Vogue, 27 May 2026

The defense was even more toxic, with Caruso’s positioning and Cason Wallace’s deflections. —Darnell Mayberry, New York Times, 27 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1665, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for deflection

• abjection
• advection
• affection
• bijection
• bisection
• collection
• complexion
• confection
• connection
• connexion
• convection
• correction

Medical Definition

deflection

noun

de·​flec·​tion di-ˈflek-shən 

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

di-ˈflekt 

verb