divergent

Definition of divergentnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word divergent different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of divergent are different, disparate, diverse, and various. While all these words mean "unlike in kind or character," divergent implies movement away from each other and unlikelihood of ultimate meeting or reconciliation.

went on to pursue divergent careers

When would different be a good substitute for divergent?

While the synonyms different and divergent are close in meaning, different may imply little more than separateness but it may also imply contrast or contrariness.

different foods

When might disparate be a better fit than divergent?

The meanings of disparate and divergent largely overlap; however, disparate emphasizes incongruity or incompatibility.

disparate notions of freedom

When is diverse a more appropriate choice than divergent?

The words diverse and divergent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, diverse implies both distinctness and marked contrast.

such diverse interests as dancing and football

Where would various be a reasonable alternative to divergent?

The synonyms various and divergent are sometimes interchangeable, but various stresses the number of sorts or kinds.

tried various methods

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of divergent Horse racing's Triple Crown faces an uncertain future as leading institutions pursue divergent strategies. Nicole Kraft, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026 The success or failure of these divergent solutions could determine how fast supersonic travel can return, without the noise complaints that grounded it decades ago, and just how many people will benefit. Jacopo Prisco, CNN Money, 6 Aug. 2026 His first challenge will be unifying Democratic factions after a bitter primary that offered divergent visions for a party desperate for a path back to power. Joey Cappelletti, Fortune, 5 Aug. 2026 Gundlach said the divergent moves across the Treasury curve following the announcement showed investors' skepticism that the Fed will ultimately follow through. Yun Li, CNBC, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for divergent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for divergent
Adjective
  • Last month, Congo began vaccinating health and other front-line workers with the Ervebo vaccine that was effective in past Ebola outbreaks caused by a different, more common type called Zaire.
    JEAN-YVES KAMALE, Arkansas Online, 11 Sep. 2026
  • Indian dark and African dark were a different story altogether, seeming to hold something more sinister.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 11 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • That copper complex is also responsible for the formula’s distinctive blue hue, while glycerin and two forms of hyaluronic acid draw in moisture for an immediate plumping effect.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 6 Sep. 2026
  • During the traditional preparation process, calcium is added, which gives the jelly its distinctive firm and rubbery texture.
    Michiko Tomioka, CNBC, 5 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Celebrating three decades at Bergdorf’s, Fargo helped define style through her distinct visual storytelling and fashion curation while being an influential champion of American fashion.
    Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 9 Sep. 2026
  • Elsewhere, dining ranges from casual beachside fare and an award-winning bar serving signature cocktails to the Agave Study, where guests can explore the spirit’s provenance, production, and distinct character.
    Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 9 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • All who died, including my sister, Patricia Fagan, were a diverse cross-section of New Yorkers, and their memory can’t be erased.
    Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 6 Sep. 2026
  • Universal Studios Hollywood's Halloween Horror Nights is increasingly featuring horror from diverse cultures.
    Eve Chen, USA Today, 6 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Divergent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/divergent. Accessed 16 Sep. 2026.

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