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.
Had 10 pass deflections in 2025 and five interceptions in 2024, and could be a developmental ball-hawk behind Talanoa Hufanga and Brandon Jones (the latter of which is on an expiring deal). Luca Evans, Denver Post, 25 Apr. 2026 McDavid trimmed the Oilers’ deficit with a fortunate deflection off Pavel Mintyukov’s stick, but the Oilers superstar short-circuited another power play later in the third by cross-checking Tyson Hinds. Los Angeles Times, 25 Apr. 2026 McDavid trimmed the Oilers’ deficit with a fortunate deflection off Pavel Mintyukov’s stick, but the superstar short-circuited another power play later in the third by cross-checking Tyson Hinds. ABC News, 25 Apr. 2026 Once again Hugo Lloris stood firm, stopping a pair of first-half chances as well as a deflection off Long that required a quick reaction to avoid an own-goal in consecutive matches. Josh Gross, Daily News, 23 Apr. 2026 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

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Cite this Entry

“Deflection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deflection. Accessed 28 Apr. 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

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