deflect — to cause something to change direction by hitting it
Part of speech: VERB
Definition: to cause something to change direction by hitting it
Pronunciation (IPA): /dɪˈflekt/
Example Sentences
- My mom always deflects compliments about her cooking by saying 'I just followed the recipe.'
- The politician skillfully deflected every question about the scandal.
- He tried to deflect his girlfriend's anger by buying her favorite ice cream.
deflect
VERB[/dɪˈflekt/]
to cause something to change direction by hitting it
The calm royal guard easily managed to deflect the assassin's dagger with a simple flick of his heavy gauntlet.
DE(away) + FLECT(bend) — when you deflect criticism, you simply bend it away from yourself.
He raised his mirrored shield to reflect the glare and deflect the spear, doing everything to protect the king.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'deflectere', composed of the prefix 'de-' (away, down) and 'flectere' (to bend or turn). The word entered English in the late 16th century.
Breakdown
de- (away, down) + flect (bend, turn) = deflect
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My mom always deflects compliments about her cooking by saying 'I just followed the recipe.'”
“The politician skillfully deflected every question about the scandal.”
“He tried to deflect his girlfriend's anger by buying her favorite ice cream.”
“The shield deflected the laser beam perfectly.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.