deviate

[dee-vee-eyt, dee-vee-it] / ˈdi viˌeɪt, ˈdi vi ɪt /

VERB

stray from normal path

Synonyms

STRONGEST

depart differ diverge vary veer

STRONG

aberrate avert bend contrast deflect digress divagate drift err part shy swerve turn wander

WEAK

angle off bear off bend the rules break pattern circumlocate depart from edge off get around go amiss go haywire go off on tangent go out of control go out of way leave beaten path not conform swim against stream take a turn turn aside

Antonyms

STRONGEST

agree stay

STRONG

straighten

WEAK

go straight keep

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.

I am unlikely to deviate from a system when I see things laid out in front of me.

From Slate • May 24, 2026

United are not unwilling to talk but are determined not to deviate from a pre-stated desire to keep their wage bill under control.

From BBC • May 8, 2026

The one thing that would cause him to deviate would be a sharp and dangerous economic slowdown, ideally combined with a slump in inflation.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 18, 2026

“We have not received any indication that the U.S. administration intends to deviate from those commitments,” said the spokesman, Olof Gill.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 14, 2026

Crew Obligation Statement: “I think we need to deviate right about now.”

From "Outliers" by Malcolm Gladwell

Vocabulary lists containing deviate

A Wrinkle in Time

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

A Long Way Gone

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Latin Love, Vol I: via

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!