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 In a city of big, flashy restaurant openings and even bigger restaurant groups, two of Dallas’ youngest — and busiest — restaurateurs have taken a divergent approach. Claire Ballor staff Reporter, Dallas Morning News, 23 Feb. 2026 In theory, the simplified asset structure could open the door to a minority stake sale, control transaction or take-private deal for either franchise, especially for investors who have divergent views about the future of each league. Justin Birnbaum, Sportico.com, 18 Feb. 2026 City and county at odds The city of Sacramento and Sacramento County’s divergent views on SHRA comes as recent actions have pitted both agencies against one another. Ishani Desai, Sacbee.com, 13 Feb. 2026 Her style is confrontational and seemingly fearless, often provoking hugely divergent reactions from critics and fans. Emily Zemler, Los Angeles Times, 11 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for divergent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for divergent
Adjective
  • Each ticket costs $5, and players may pick six numbers from two separate pools of numbers - five different numbers from 1 to 70 (the white balls) and one number from 1 to 24 (the gold Mega Ball) - or select Easy Pick/Quick Pick.
    Fernando Cervantes Jr, USA Today, 28 Feb. 2026
  • However, On Fire With Jeff Probst won't return in its usual form for Survivor 50, Entertainment Weekly has learned, as CBS is taking a different approach to promote the show's milestone 50th season.
    Staff Author, Entertainment Weekly, 28 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The mangrove environment creates a distinctive paddling experience.
    Taylor Haught, Miami Herald, 4 Mar. 2026
  • Founded in 1929 in Prague, Czechoslovakia, Jawa’s first model was the 500 OHV, which did wonders in establishing the brand’s reputation for solid engineering and distinctive design.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 4 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • And while some seasons in the past have felt safe in the Italian fashion capital, many Milan designers took risks this season, pushing a distinct vision.
    Lucy Maguire, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2026
  • Its design draws inspiration from classic European architecture and art, creating a distinct identity within a neighborhood already known for its Mediterranean Revival style.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • That shift is creating openings for a diverse array of chipmakers to challenge Nvidia’s dominance.
    Jeremy Kahn, Fortune, 26 Feb. 2026
  • Bettmann Lafayette's legacy of unique and diverse storytelling lives on through other Harlem theater companies, like The Classical Theatre of Harlem (CTH).
    Noelle Lilley, CBS News, 26 Feb. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Divergent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/divergent. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

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