DIVERT Synonyms: 111 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'divert' different from other verbs like it?

The words amuse and entertain are common synonyms of divert . While all three words mean "to pass or cause to pass the time pleasantly," divert implies distracting attention from worry or routine occupation especially by something funny. // a light comedy to divert the tired businessman

Q: In what contexts can 'amuse' take the place of 'divert'?

The meanings of amuse and divert largely overlap; however, amuse suggests that one's attention is engaged lightly. // amuse yourselves while I make dinner

Q: When would 'entertain' be a good substitute for 'divert'?

Although the words entertain and divert have much in common, entertain suggests supplying amusement by specially contrived methods. // a magician entertaining children at a party

divert

verb

də-ˈvərt

Definition of divert next

as in to amuse

to cause (someone) to pass the time agreeably occupied a light comedy to divert the tired business executive

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to turn

to change the course or direction of (something) the bike race was diverted around the construction zone

Synonyms & Similar Words

as in to distract

to draw the attention or mind to something else trying to divert the child with a toy while the doctor was giving her a shot

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word divert different from other verbs like it?

The words amuse and entertain are common synonyms of divert. While all three words mean "to pass or cause to pass the time pleasantly," divert implies distracting attention from worry or routine occupation especially by something funny.

a light comedy to divert the tired businessman

In what contexts can amuse take the place of divert?

The meanings of amuse and divert largely overlap; however, amuse suggests that one's attention is engaged lightly.

amuse yourselves while I make dinner

When would entertain be a good substitute for divert?

Although the words entertain and divert have much in common, entertain suggests supplying amusement by specially contrived methods.

a magician entertaining children at a party

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of divert The river had been diverted to run the giant turbines to provide electricity to Siskiyou County and parts of southern Oregon for the first time in the early 20th century. —

Debra Utacia Krol, USA TODAY, 5 Nov. 2024 The big picture: The change is part of a wider city effort to divert refuse from landfills. —

Asher Price, Axios, 31 Oct. 2024 Drop by drop, the river is diverted from its channel from start to finish until there's virtually none left. —

Shaun McKinnon, The Arizona Republic, 28 Oct. 2024 More:Big Mac bridge fire: What to know about Daniel Carter Beard Bridge Downtown Cincinnati roads remain closed ODOT is diverting southbound I-471 traffic from Ohio by way of I-71 and I-75 South. —

Bebe Hodges, The Enquirer, 3 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for divert

Recent Examples of Synonyms for divert

Verb

Fans were amused by the basketball team taking the city's public transit system.

Marina Watts, People.com, 4 Nov. 2024
Dunkin' Donuts has amused its fanbase and competitors alike following a rather spicy post to the brand's Instagram account.

Amaris Encinas, USA TODAY, 25 Oct. 2024