Meaning & Definition of word "Divert"

Divert

/dɪˈvɜːrt/

verb:

  • 1. To turn aside or change the direction of something.
    • Example: The heavy rains diverted the river from its usual course.
  • 2. To distract or entertain someone.
    • Example: She used a funny movie to divert her children while she finished her work.
  • 3. To cause (someone) to change course from the original plan.
    • Example: The unexpected road closure diverted traffic to alternate routes.
  • 4. To redirect something, especially to a different use.
    • Example: The charity decided to divert funds from the event to assist disaster relief efforts.

Etymology

From Latin 'divertĕre', meaning 'to turn aside'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

divert attention:

To cause someone to focus on something else.

divert traffic:

To redirect vehicles from their usual route.

divert resources:

To allocate resources to a different use.

Related Words

diversion:

An activity that diverts attention or provides enjoyment.

divide:

To separate or distribute into parts.

Slang Meanings of divert