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deflection

deflection

4 6.0
How much an object bends or moves away from a straight line
  • noun
  • /dɪˈflɛkʃən/
translation icon : flecha
  • The engineer measured the deflection of the beam to ensure it would support the weight of the building.
  • beam deflection
  • load versus deflection
  • deflection curve

And then the little I know, like it took a deflection for Fernandez's goal, right?

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Examples

  • And while we've made some progress with the deflection of asteroids, there's still a long way to go.

  • The difference in output between the detectors is then proportional to the deflection amplitude.

    Academic text (1995)
  • So see now if I apply a force, there is a deflection, right?

  • The most effective method of deflection is to blow off part of the object's surface.

    Academic text (1992)
  • As the pushing and deflection continue, the edge of the cap may further fold over.

    Academic text (2001)
  • So the reason for that is you get some deflection on the gantry.

  • Still, the chances of having to use deflection technologies on an asteroid in the near future are admittedly remote.

    Academic text (2008)
  • Stiffness of back support was calculated from the slope of each load versus deflection curve.

    Academic text (2000)
  • The Tarsys and the LaBac WCSS showed a permanent deflection of 1.2 degrees and 1.0 degrees, respectively.

    Academic text (2000)
  • Researchers at the center will study high-energy nuclear explosions and low-energy non-nuclear alternatives as deflection techniques.

    Academic text (2008)

Synonyms

to turn
vsdeflection
1.0

Move something so it faces a different direction or side

emphasizes deviation from a straight path rather than rotation alone
deviation
vsdeflection
25 5.3

A difference from what is usual or expected

is specifically the physical action of being turned aside from straightness
turning
vsdeflection
22 2.5

A change of direction in a road or path

focuses specifically on being moved aside from a straight course
diversion
vsdeflection
13 5.2

A change that moves attention or action away from the main plan

is the physical process of being moved off a straight line
bending
vsdeflection
10 2.1

A change that makes something curve from being straight

focuses on changing direction of movement rather than altering shape
sway
vsdeflection
8 3.5

A movement from side to side, like a bridge or ship

is about a one-time turn away from a straight course
swerve
vsdeflection
7 3.7

A sudden sharp turn to avoid something

is broader, meaning any turning aside from a straight course
inflection
vsdeflection
4 6.8

A bend in a line or path that changes direction

is more about the process of being forced aside from straightness
change of direction
vsdeflection
3 3.2

A move to face or go a different way

stresses being bumped or forced aside from a straight course
change of course
vsdeflection
3 4.2

A move to a different direction physically or in plans

is more about being turned aside from a straight line than general change
swerving
vsdeflection
2 4.0

A sudden change of direction to avoid something

can include slower or planned deviations from a straight route
redirection
vsdeflection
1 4.2

Changing the direction or destination of people, things, and resources

centres on simple physical movement aside rather than intentional rerouting
inclination
vsdeflection
1 5.1

A slight forward bend of the head or body to show respect

is about changing travel direction rather than a bodily lean or bow
veering
vsdeflection
1 5.3

A sudden change of direction while moving

covers turning aside more generally, not only sudden shifts
deflexion
vsdeflection
9.7

Bending of a beam or other part so it is not straight

is the same concept but uses a different spelling or form
shifting
vsdeflection
3.8

Changing position or direction in an unpredictable way

is specifically the act of being turned aside from a straight path

Antonyms

41 3.9

The arrangement of things in a straight line or correct position

1 1.0

The condition of having no curves, bends, or angles

Compounds

deflection of light
  • Specialized
6.4

Light rays bend when they pass through different materials or around objects

A short answer that avoids the question

wind deflection
  • Specialized
7.5

Sideways movement of a flying object when wind pushes it

How Far

reversal
25 4.2
deflection
4 6.0
diversion
13 5.2
to bend
268 1.0
to curve
22 2.8

Surface Forms

deflection singular
deflections plural

Morphology

deflection = deflect (semi-transparent) = de + flect + ion

Standard noun formation from the verb 'deflect', meaning the act, process, or result of deflecting.

Etymology

Deflection comes from the Latin parts de- 'away' and flectere 'to bend', the same root as flex, which means 'to bend'. Think of something being 'bent away' from a straight path, which is why a sudden deflection of a ball changes its course.