deflection

noun

de·​flec·​tion di-ˈflek-shən How to pronounce deflection (audio)
dē-
Synonyms of deflectionnext
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

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.
Jackson leads the league in pass deflections, according to Pro Football Reference, with 19. Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 31 Dec. 2025 Opposite Jennings, fellow outside linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson got victimized on one of the Jets’ longest runs of the game, but otherwise was a positive force throughout with a pass deflection, run stuff and a hurry. Andrew Callahan, Boston Herald, 30 Dec. 2025 Since being drafted in the second round in 2020, Diggs played in 66 career games for the franchise with 20 interceptions and 63 pass deflections. Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 Dec. 2025 All five goals scored came either through deflections, tips, redirects or fluky plays. Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 18 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for deflection

Word History

First Known Use

1665, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of deflection was in 1665

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Deflection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deflection. Accessed 7 Jan. 2026.

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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