deflect

//dɪˈflɛkt//
B2Frequency Level 11Neutral
Visual representation of deflect

Verb

deflectInfinitive
deflectPresent tense
deflectedPast tense
deflectedPast participle
deflectingPresent participle
deflectsThird-person singular
1

To cause something to change direction by hitting or blocking it.

The goalkeeper deflected the ball with his hand.

2

To turn aside or cause to turn aside from a straight course or fixed direction.

The goalkeeper deflected the ball away from the goal.

3

To avoid or redirect criticism, blame, or attention away from oneself.

The politician tried to deflect criticism by changing the subject.