Definition of "deflection" in English

noun

1. The act of deflecting or something deflected.

   • Russell's goalbound shot took a deflection off a defender and went out for a corner.

2. Deviation (of a needle or other indicator or mechanism) from a previous position.

3. (figuratively) The act of refusing to address something (questions, criticism, etc.).

4. (psychology) The act of rejecting culpability by redirecting blame elsewhere.

5. Bending or deformation under load.

6. (chess) A tactic that forces an opposing piece to leave the square, rank or file it occupies, thus exposing the king or a valuable piece