Deflect Meaning and Definition
/dfekt/
Verb/Noun
A Deflect (verb) means to change the direction of something in motion, usually to prevent it from hitting a target. It can also refer to changing one’s course or path. (Noun) A device or system used to redirect energy, projectiles, or other objects.
- She pointed the aerosol can away, trying to deflect the spray.
- He changed his strategy to deflect the opponent’s attacks.
- The team used a deflector to scatter the beam of light.
- Divert
- Point
- Shun
- Redirect
- Reorient
- Attack
The word ‘deflect’ comes from the Latin ‘deflectere’, which means ‘to bend or turn away’. This meaning has been used in various contexts, including physics, military strategy, and everyday conversation.
The word ‘deflect’ is commonly used in scientific and technical contexts, such as physics, engineering, and computer science. It can also be used in figurative language to describe a shift or redirection, like in politics or social movements.
When using the word ‘deflect’, pay attention to your context and tone. In a scientific setting, ‘deflect’ is used as a neutral term, but in politics or social situations, the connotation might vary.
The word ‘deflect’ has been referenced in various forms of media, such as:
- Star Trek: Deflectors are used by spacecraft to avoid or repel attacks.
- Video Games: Some games feature levels where deflection is a key mechanic.
- Science Fiction: Deflectors are used to explain hypothetical phenomena and plot devices.
Some idiomatic expressions that include the word ‘deflect’ are:
- ‘Deflect and destroy’
- ‘Deflect the question’
- ‘Deflect criticism’
Here are some words and phrases closely related to ‘deflect’:
- No – opposed to affirmative action.
- Reflect – to redirect into an image.
- Vindictive – filled with resentment.
Some common word combinations with ‘deflect’ include:
- Deflect attack
- Deflect laser
- Deflect criticism
The word ‘deflect’ is relatively common in technical and scientific contexts. It also appears in everyday conversation when people talk about changing course or redirecting energy.
According to Google Ngram Viewer, the frequency of ‘deflect’ in books has increased over the past centuries, indicating a growing need to describe redirection in various contexts.
Some common misspellings of the word ‘deflect’ include:
- Deflect -> Deflecte
- Deflect -> Deflecter
- Deflect -> Deflec