Diverge

/dɪˈvɜrdʒ/

Meaning & Definition

verb
to move or extend in different directions from a common point; to branch off.
As the road began to diverge, we had to choose which path to take.
to differ in opinion, character, or form; to deviate.
The two scientists diverge in their theories about the origin of the universe.
to become different in character or form.
Over the years, the siblings' lives began to diverge dramatically after they moved to different cities.

Etymology

From Latin 'divergere', meaning 'to turn aside, separate'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

diverge from the norm
To behave or act in a way that is different from what is usual or expected.
diverge paths
When two or more paths split and move in different directions.
let's not diverge too much
A request to avoid deviating from the main topic of conversation.

Related Words

divergent
Tending to be different or develop in different directions.
diversion
An instance of turning something aside from its course.

Slang Meanings

To drift apart from friends or a group.
After graduation, we just kind of diverged, you know?
To take different paths in life.
We were so close in high school, but we diverged once we went to different colleges.