deflect

/dɪflˈɛkt/

/dɪˈfɫɛkt/

to deflect

MAIN VERB

impede the movement of (an opponent or a ball)

synonyms : block

draw someone's attention away from something

synonyms : distract

turn aside and away from an initial or intended course

turn from a straight course, fixed direction, or line of interest

synonyms : bend

to stop a person from doing what they initially intended

synonyms : avert

Examples

1. The journalist tried to lay a glove on the politician during the interview, but the politician skillfully deflected the tough questions.

2. Deflect that negative gossip.

3. The plate armor deflects part of the impact energy of the war hammer blow, not all of it, though.

4. Deflects the punt.