#1 deflect v. [debar, forefend, forfend, obviate, avert, head off, stave off, fend off, avoid, ward off] prevent the occurrence of; prevent from happening; "Let's avoid a confrontation"; "head off a confrontation"; "avert a strike". wn
#2 deflect v. [bend, turn away] turn from a straight course, fixed direction, or line of interest. wn
#3 deflect v. turn aside and away from an initial or intended course. wn
#4 deflect v. [distract] draw someone's attention away from something; "The thief distracted the bystanders"; "He deflected his competitors". wn
#5 deflect v. [parry, block] impede the movement of (an opponent or a ball); "block an attack". wn
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