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 These non-profit associations focus on every imaginable issue and activity, and reflect the widely divergent views of our population. Michael Posner, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 Advertisement But the recent surge of new groups has confused CEOs, donors, and other key constituencies by pursuing often wildly divergent messages and contradictory agendas, inadvertently establishing circular firing squads, undermining unity, and siphoning resources from credible expert voices. Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Time, 28 June 2026 The fact that this is an effect of adjacent sounds explains why the same changes and divergent vowels have also occurred in quality and quartz. Literary Hub, 25 June 2026 Over the last year, both the state and federal governments have given divergent statements about what’s been happening at Alligator Alcatraz. Miami Herald, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for divergent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for divergent
Adjective
  • But Scheft and his team are mastering the subtle differences and plan to offer many of the same loaves available in Boston, though the bakeries will have a few different offerings.
    Connie Ogle July 17, Miami Herald, 17 July 2026
  • One venomous species may produce hundreds of distinct molecules, each assigned to different biological dirty work.
    Steve Midway, STAT, 16 July 2026
Adjective
  • The wine itself is distinctive due to its high percentage of Cabernet Franc (up to 55 percent), and also known for its long aging potential (15 to 50 years, and more for great vintages).
    Lewis Chester, Robb Report, 11 July 2026
  • After a fire—rumored to have been set by a disgruntled former suitor of one of the Gangotena daughters—badly damaged the mansion, Italian architects rebuilt it in the early 20th century, giving it its distinctive Neoclassical character.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 July 2026
Adjective
  • Instead of painting a broad picture that included all leading forms of content distribution — movie theaters, broadcast and cable television as well as streaming platforms — the states zeroed in on three distinct slices.
    Meg James, Los Angeles Times, 15 July 2026
  • Data, on the other hand, shows a distinct generational divide.
    Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 15 July 2026
Adjective
  • The market sees diverse approaches from infrastructure, authorization, and security vendors, alongside consolidation through acquisitions and open-source initiatives.
    Janakiram MSV, Forbes.com, 6 July 2026
  • The Adayar Eco Park, a green lung that hugs an estuary, is nearby and worth a visit for its diverse flora and fauna.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Divergent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/divergent. Accessed 18 Jul. 2026.

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