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

But Geekie’s deflection of a David Pastrnak one-timer was his first in 13 games. —Fluto Shinzawa, New York Times, 1 Feb. 2026

Dismissive or negative comments about former employees, which can signal deflection of responsibility. —Cheryl Robinson, Forbes.com, 28 Jan. 2026

Carmel 18-7 (2) Playing more and more minutes, freshman Ada Lindal posts seven points, five rebounds, four assists, eight deflections and four steals in the Corsairs’ win over Joliet Catholic. —Bobby Narang, Chicago Tribune, 27 Jan. 2026

Texas finished with 37 deflections and four kills, a reflection of intensity and effort. —Cedric Golden, Austin American Statesman, 26 Jan. 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