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

Example 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 For example, one common theme in cases examined by the IG is criminals using personal belongings such as jackets and backpacks to quickly divert and hide mail while on the job. —

David Williams, Baltimore Sun, 16 Jan. 2025 The other side: Democrats and public school leaders have been fiercely critical of Lee's plans, saying vouchers would divert millions of dollars away from already underfunded public school systems. —

Adam Tamburin, Axios, 15 Jan. 2025 For example, Trump vowed during the presidential campaign to deny Newsom federal money to fight wildfires unless the governor diverted more water to farms. —

George Skelton, Los Angeles Times, 10 Jan. 2025 Trump's comments highlight ongoing political battles over how the state allocates its water resources, with Republicans, like Trump, often arguing that too much water is being diverted for environmental protections rather than human and agricultural use. —

Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 9 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for divert

Recent Examples of Synonyms for divert

Verb

The other women are amused by Nazanin’s outrageousness.

— Charles McNulty, Los Angeles Times, 21 Jan. 2025
TikTok users outside of the U.S. have also been amused by the situation.

— Brenton Blanchet, People.com, 19 Jan. 2025