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deflect

verb

/dɪˈflɛkt/

Meaning

to cause something to change direction; to avoid answering directly

The shield deflected the incoming arrow.

deflect criticism

divert, redirect, avert, sidestep, parry

attract, face

deflect attention, deflect criticism, deflect a question, deflect blame

to disturb or disconcert someone; to cause to feel unsettled

To reduce the severity or intensity of damage or problems.

to divide or separate with a sharp tool

To treat a person or group as unimportant or insignificant.

to climb up, rise, or fix something in place

To become dry, wrinkled, and smaller due to lack of moisture.