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

Kylan Mbappé took a cut at the net early, though his right-footed shot was deflected out of bounds by goalkeeper Yassine Bounou. — Joe Murphy, NBC news, 9 July 2026

Maryland’s political class seems all too comfortable deflecting blame onto utility providers. — Torrey Snow, Baltimore Sun, 8 July 2026

Malik Tillman’s free kick deflected into the Belgium goal in the 31st minute to bring the Americans level, but just two minutes later, captain Tim Ream was beaten by De Ketelaere again for a header as the Belgians restored their lead. — Ben Church, CNN Money, 7 July 2026

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