deflected

[dih-flek-tid] / dɪˈflɛk tɪd /

VERB

bounce off; turn aside

Synonyms

STRONGEST

avert bend cover up divert hook pivot ricochet slip swerve veer whip

STRONG

curve deviate disperse diverge fend parry sheer shy sidetrack slew twist wheel whirl wind

WEAK

glance off hold off keep off volte-face

Antonyms

STRONGEST

stay straighten

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Staley deflected a reporter’s questions about what Auriemma claimed she said to officials.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

They were lucky to beat Ukraine, outplayed for much of the game but thankful for Gareth Bale's deflected free-kick, following his two brilliant goals in the semi-final win over Austria.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

What many saw was a cautious career prosecutor who was forced to testify under duress and who deflected questions from both Democrats and Republicans by referring repeatedly to his voluminous report.

From Barron's • Mar. 21, 2026

But the Kings tied it five minutes later when Drew Doughty’s shot from the blue line deflected off the heel of Bruins forward Elias Lindholm and into the net.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 2026

Luke deflected it easily, but I saw a change in his face.

From "The Lightning Thief" by Rick Riordan