to cause something to change direction, or to prevent it from hitting something directly by making it go in a different direction, to avoid talking about something directly

a bulletproof vest, a chip on one's shoulder, the buck stops here

deflect blame, deflect criticism, deflect attention

Formal and Informal Expressions of deflect

In different contexts, you can replace 'deflect' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'divert, veer' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'bounce, sidetrack' is a commonplace synonym.

deflect: Explore its Definition & Usage

deflect Definition

1to cause something to change direction, or to prevent it from hitting something directly by making it go in a different direction
2to avoid talking about something directly

Using deflect: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "deflect" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The goalie deflected the ball with his foot.
Example
She deflected the question by changing the subject.
Example
The shield deflected the incoming arrows.
Example
He tried to deflect attention from his mistakes.

deflect Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for deflect

Antonyms for deflect

Idioms Using deflect

a bulletproof vest
a protective garment worn over the torso that is designed to deflect or stop bullets
Example
The police officer was saved by his bulletproof vest, which deflected the bullet.
a chip on one's shoulder
a perceived grievance or sense of inferiority that causes a person to be easily angered or offended
Example
He always had a chip on his shoulder and would deflect any criticism with hostility.
the buck stops here
a phrase that means the speaker is willing to take responsibility for a decision or problem
Example
As the CEO, I know that the buck stops here and I am ultimately responsible for the company's success or failure.

Phrases with deflect

deflect blame
to shift responsibility for something to someone else
Example
He tried to deflect blame for the accident onto his colleague.
deflect criticism
to avoid or redirect negative comments or feedback
Example
The politician tried to deflect criticism by pointing out his opponent's flaws.
deflect attention
to divert someone's focus or interest away from a particular topic or issue
Example
The celebrity tried to deflect attention from her personal life by talking about her new movie.

Origins of deflect

from Latin 'deflectere', meaning 'to bend away'

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Summary: deflect in Brief

The verb 'deflect' [dɪˈflɛkt] means to cause something to change direction or to avoid talking about something directly. It can refer to physical objects, such as deflecting a ball or arrows, or abstract concepts, such as deflecting blame or criticism. Common phrases include 'deflect blame' and 'deflect attention,' while idioms like 'a chip on one's shoulder' and 'the buck stops here' use the word metaphorically.