Synonyms of deflect

deflect

verb

di-ˈflekt 

as in to turn

to change the course or direction of (something)

the wind deflected the Frisbee just as I was about to lunge for it

Synonyms & Similar Words

• turn
• swing
• divert
• redirect
• whip
• veer
• shift
• move
• wheel
• avert
• deviate
• swivel
• switch
• whirl
• shunt
• swerve
• sway
• transfer
• curve
• sidetrack
• rechannel
• twist
• reverse
• bend
• turn back
• zigzag

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of deflect

Just when the African debutants threatened to take Argentina to penalties, a header from Cristian Romero got deflected by a Cabo Verde defender and found the net in the 111th minute. — Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 7 July 2026

Many Mexican players were shorter than their English counterparts and England was content to let Mexico keep sending crosses into the box England could easily deflect during the final 30 minutes of play. — Eduard Cauich, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026

Argentina finally re-took the lead for good in the 111th minute when Cristian Romero hit a glancing header that deflected off the arm of Cape Verde defender Diney Borges for an own goal. — Miami Herald, 4 July 2026

In another incredible finale to a World Cup 2026 match, Cristian Romero met Messi’s corner with his header deflecting off Diney Borges for an own goal on 111 minutes to win it as Argentina held out under late Cape Verde pressure. — James Horncastle, New York Times, 4 July 2026