Definition of diversionnext
1
2
as in amusement
the act or activity of providing pleasure or amusement especially for the public movies and television became two of the most popular and influential diversions of the 20th century

Synonyms & Similar Words

3
as in deviation
a turning away from a course or standard carefully weighed testimony that did not contain the slightest diversion from the truth

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 diversion The Grammy-winning musician, born Montero Hill, appeared in a Los Angeles County courtroom Monday and was granted entry into a mental health diversion program. Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 6 Apr. 2026 The treatment includes two years in what is known as a mental-health diversion program. Alex Suskind, Pitchfork, 6 Apr. 2026 This 9+1 program helps local New Yorkers qualify and filters out wealthy people who have minimal free time—or can spend their free time on expensive diversions—all while helping new runners train and stay motivated. Alex Mayyasi, NPR, 17 Mar. 2026 The wealthier among them had learned to fly for fun when aviation became an expensive diversion in the years between the world wars. Ellen Cushing, The Atlantic, 17 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for diversion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for diversion
Noun
  • South Downtown launches Atlanta's first open container district, transforming the city's approach to downtown entertainment.
    Monique John, CBS News, 16 Apr. 2026
  • Silver Nova may well attract a more youthful crowd than other Silversea ships, with its larger size, high-tech design, multiple alluring bars and lounges (including a large pool bar), bigger fitness center, relaxed dress code (primarily elegant casual), and more vibrant entertainment.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • There are, however, a couple of locals watching in amusement.
    Michael Deeds, Idaho Statesman, 6 Apr. 2026
  • The thread, originally posted by user SxnKisss, reflects a broader mix of amusement and skepticism.
    Claire Dodds, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • But there are other deviations as well.
    Justin Chang, New Yorker, 10 Apr. 2026
  • The system uses sensor feedback to adjust for small deviations over time.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 9 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Large, connected ecosystems help protect drinking water supplies, reduce flooding and support agriculture, recreation and tourism.
    Sarah Lockhart, The Conversation, 13 Apr. 2026
  • Others emphasized that customers rely on hemp products for far more than recreation.
    Briseida Holguin, CBS News, 12 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • That was being held up by Hungary’s Viktor Orbán, but his departure as prime minister after weekend elections could free up the sum.
    ABC News, ABC News, 14 Apr. 2026
  • The rooftop and courtyard of the American Embassy, plus thirteen other buildings in Saigon and Tan Son Nhut, were designated as departure points.
    Louis Menand, New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Their delight can motivate you to keep doing the things that bring your heart happiness.
    Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 15 Apr. 2026
  • Her 9-year-old son, Matthew, helped his mom out by declaring that Maroon 5 is his favorite band, to Levine's delight.
    KiMi Robinson, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Playing it ‘safe’ isn’t safe anymore, experts say Being open to new, unexpected detours on your career journey can be a smart strategy, career experts say.
    Ashton Jackson, CNBC, 14 Apr. 2026
  • The moment is a reminder that even the most picture-perfect family vacations can take a wild detour — and that sometimes the best parenting move is just rolling with it.
    Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 13 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The participants were all energized and had fun in the classes.
    R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 16 Apr. 2026
  • This film, curated by some of the best directors in Colombia – his friends responsible for his legacy – is a great example of his vision for action, horror, fun and amazing directing.
    Anna Marie de la Fuente, Variety, 16 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Diversion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/diversion. Accessed 19 Apr. 2026.

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