Definition of "deflect" in English

verb

1. (transitive) To make (something) deviate from its original path or position.

2. (transitive, ball games) To touch the ball, often unwittingly, after a shot or a sharp pass, thereby making it unpredictable for the other players.

   • The defender deflected the cross into his own net.

3. (intransitive) To deviate from an original path or position.

4. (transitive, figuratively) To avoid addressing (questions, criticism, etc.).

   • The Prime Minister deflected some increasingly pointed questions by claiming he had an appointment.

5. (transitive, figuratively) To divert (attention, etc.).

6. (psychology) To redirect culpability to avoid it.