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Deflection is the act of deflecting—redirecting something or causing it to move in a direction that’s different from the course it had been on.

It can also refer to an instance of deflecting, as in Despite a deflection by the goalie, the ball still rolled into the goal.��

The verb deflect can also be used in a passive way meaning for something to have its course changed, and deflection can also refer to an instance of this.

Deflection can also be used in a figurative way referring to the act or an instance of doing something to avoid questioning or scrutiny, as in When asked about the scandal, the senator offered only deflection, giving a vague answer and changing the subject.��

Deflection can also be used in more specific ways in scientific and technical contexts.

Example: The meteor is headed straight for Earth—our only chance is to cause a deflection using the space laser!

The first records of the word deflection come from around 1600. It ultimately comes from the Latin ��ŧ�ڱ��𳦳ٱ����, “to bend down” or “to turn aside,” from flectere, “to bend” or “to turn” (the same root is used in the words reflect and reflection). The prefix de- is used to indicate a reversal or undoing.

The literal sense of deflection is often used in the description of sports action—players cause deflections on balls and pucks to prevent them from entering the goal, the hoop, or another player’s hands. Such deflections are often slight—the ball or puck changes direction only slightly. But deflecting something can sometimes cause it to move in the complete opposite direction, as in The deflection by the goalie caused the ball to bounce right back at the striker, who then easily kicked it in the goal.��

When you engage in deflection of questions, you dodge or evade them, often by changing the subject. Politicians are especially known for using deflection to avoid addressing sensitive issues. This figurative sense of deflection is often used in a way that implies that such actions are dishonest.

What are some other forms related to deflection?

• deflect (verb)

What are some synonyms for deflection?

• redirection

What are some words that share a root or word element with deflection?��

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• reflection

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What are some words that often get used in discussing deflection?

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• ball
• question
• course
• path
• direction
• misdirection

Deflection is commonly used in both literal and figurative ways. When used figuratively, it’s usually negative.

23' Goal to Forest Green Rovers.

Dan Happe gets across to block Cadden's shot, but the deflection unluckily nestles into the corner of the net. 1-0

— Leyton Orient (@leytonorientfc)

People’s coping strategies are rarely, if ever about us. Even if it’s lying, deflection, etc.

Now the coping strategies we allow? That is where the learning is. Asking:
“Why do I continually re-invite this behavior after seeing it?” There’s the learnin fam.

— Yolo Akili (@YoloAkili)

Deflection, dribble, offside, foul play and distraction USED TO BE just football things.

— Nakuul Mehta (@NakuulMehta)

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Which of the following scenarios includes an example of deflection?

A. John shoots the basketball, but Jane blocks it before it can reach the rim.
B. A rock falls from a dump truck and bounces off a car’s windshield.
C. Justin’s dad asks him if he passed his math test, and Justin responds by asking what’s for dinner.
D. All of the above.