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

In six games this season, Diggs has accounted for 18 tackles but has yet to record a pass deflection or interception. —Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Dec. 2025

All five goals scored came either through deflections, tips, redirects or fluky plays. —Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 18 Dec. 2025

The 22-year-old Bolduc added his second of the night with a deflection 20 seconds into the third period. —CBS News, 18 Dec. 2025

Pride recorded 23 total tackles, two interceptions, four pass deflections and a fumble recovery this season. —Zach Sweet, Kansas City Star, 18 Dec. 2025

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