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 Its strength lies in its ability to hold divergent perspectives and to give visibility to a plurality of voices. Leo Barraclough, Variety, 25 Feb. 2026 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 See All Example Sentences for divergent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for divergent
Adjective
  • But there's a lower risk of having a reaction because your body recognizes your own blood, and there's no risk of contracting infectious disease from a different donor.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 21 Mar. 2026
  • That was a different era, when social media was not a thing.
    Stuart James, New York Times, 21 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • But his distinctive tattoos and fashion sense helped investigators find him — notably, his sweatshirt, his bronze foamposite sneakers, a large gold ring on his left hand and a distinctive tattoo of a globe on his left arm.
    John Annese, New York Daily News, 18 Mar. 2026
  • The plant has distinctive foliage and orange blooms that spike up from the leaves.
    Charlie Vargas, Oc Register, 18 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Jordan creates two distinct personalities with his main characters.
    Brian Truitt, USA Today, 16 Mar. 2026
  • While all three properties for the vineyard designate wines are certified organic through CCOF, (California Certified Organic Farmers), winemaking for each site requires a slightly different approach because of distinct soils and tannin profiles.
    Mike DeSimone, Robb Report, 15 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Iranians of diverse religious faiths mark Nowruz even though the hard-line Iranian regime has at times discouraged festivities.
    AMY TAXIN, Arkansas Online, 20 Mar. 2026
  • Close to two-thirds of our customers watch content in more than four languages, reflecting the growing appetite for diverse storytelling.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 19 Mar. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Divergent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/divergent. Accessed 22 Mar. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on divergent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster