Divert

Definition

Divert refers to the act of changing the direction or course of something, or to shift attention or focus from one thing to another. It can also mean to entertain or amuse someone, providing a pleasant distraction.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /daɪˈvɜːrt/
• Respelling: dy-VURT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /daɪˈvɜːt/
• Respelling: dy-VERT

The pronunciation of "divert" is consistent in both American and British English, with minor variations in accent.

Etymology

The word "divert" comes from the Latin "divertere," meaning "to turn aside" or "to separate," derived from "di-" meaning "aside" and "vertere" meaning "to turn." It entered the English language in the late 14th century with similar meanings.

Derivatives

• Diversion (noun)
• Diverted (adjective)
• Diverting (adjective)
• Divertingly (adverb)
• Undiverted (adjective)

Synonyms

• Redirect
• Distract
• Entertain

Antonyms

• Focus
• Maintain
• Direct

Usage

The term "divert" is used in various contexts. It can describe a physical change in direction, such as diverting a river or traffic. In social and psychological contexts, it is used to refer to the act of distracting or shifting attention, often to avoid or reduce focus on something. It also applies in entertainment, where something that amuses or distracts people is said to "divert" them.

Related Terms

• Distract: To take someone’s attention away from something.
• Deflect: To cause something to change direction by interposing something else.
• Amuse: To entertain someone, often for fun or distraction.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To change the direction or course of something: Refers to altering the path of something.
  • Example: "The engineers diverted the river to prevent flooding."
• To shift attention or focus: Describes the act of redirecting someone’s attention away from a specific thing.
  • Example: "He tried to divert attention from the issue by bringing up a new topic."
• To entertain or amuse: Used when something is done to distract or entertain, usually for enjoyment.
  • Example: "The comedian’s jokes diverted the audience during the long event."