deflection

noun

de·​flec·​tion di-ˈflek-shən How to pronounce deflection (audio)
dē-
1
: a turning aside or off course : deviation
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.
The fact that the first two scores of a 43-point final frame — a 2-yard Troy Franklin score for the Broncos and a 41-yard Theo Johnson touchdown for the Giants — each came on deflections might not crack the top five craziest happenings in the final 15 minutes. Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 20 Oct. 2025 The secondary also tightened its grip with 10 pass deflections. The Athletic Nfl Staff, New York Times, 19 Oct. 2025 Schneider got on the stat sheet in the fourth quarter after threatening all game, tipping in a Cusack (two assists) deflection. Tom Mulherin, Boston Herald, 18 Oct. 2025 However, the lockdown corner still has 11 career picks and has appeared in every game this season, remaining very active with 17 total tackles and a pass deflection. Cameron Belcher, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for deflection

Word History

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of deflection was in 1605

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Deflection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/deflection. Accessed 23 Oct. 2025.

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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