divergence

noun

di·​ver·​gence də-ˈvər-jən(t)s How to pronounce divergence (audio)
dī-
1
a
: a drawing apart (as of lines extending from a common center)
c
evolutionary biology : the development of dissimilar traits or features (as of body structure or behavior) in closely related populations, species, or lineages of common ancestry that typically occupy dissimilar environments or ecological niches : divergent evolution
2
: a deviation from a course or standard
3
: the condition of being mathematically divergent

Examples of divergence in a Sentence

a growing divergence of opinion about that U.S. president's place in history any divergence from the community's strict moral code was met with social ostracism
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.
If this week’s master plan reflects a company that is dead set on moving beyond cars, the divergence started back around the time of that second report. Patrick George, The Atlantic, 5 Sep. 2025 This is not to say there have been no divergences or tensions, particularly when Brazil has sought to pursue a more autonomous foreign policy. Hussein Kalout, Foreign Affairs, 2 Sep. 2025 This divergence creates the typical light-dark color scheme of the flooring, enhancing the overall pattern. Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Sep. 2025 Several economic trends have contributed to this divergence. Allison Schrager, Boston Herald, 31 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for divergence

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin dīvergentia, noun derivative of Latin dīvergent-, dīvergens divergent

First Known Use

1656, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of divergence was in 1656

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Divergence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/divergence. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

divergence

noun
di·​ver·​gence də-ˈvər-jən(t)s How to pronounce divergence (audio)
dī-
: the state of diverging : a drawing apart (as of lines extending from a common center)

Medical Definition

divergence

noun
di·​ver·​gence də-ˈvər-jən(t)s, dī- How to pronounce divergence (audio)
1
a
: a drawing apart
b
: the acquisition of dissimilar characters by related organisms under the influence of unlike environments
2
: dissemination of the effect of activity of a single nerve cell through multiple synaptic connections compare convergence sense 4
diverge verb
diverged; diverging
divergent adjective

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