Definition of diversionnext
1
2
as in amusement
the act or activity of providing pleasure or amusement especially for the public movies and television became two of the most popular and influential diversions of the 20th century

Synonyms & Similar Words

3
as in deviation
a turning away from a course or standard carefully weighed testimony that did not contain the slightest diversion from the truth

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 diversion Tuesday morning’s workout brought a welcome diversion from drills, when SDSU players and coaches moved from the turf to the grass practice field and actually played some football. Kirk Kenney, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Aug. 2026 The movie’s greatest diversion occurs when Wilson meets an aging rock-and-roll musician, and his rock documentary becomes a literal rockumentary. Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 12 Aug. 2026 The alliance terminated its contract with Warner Wellness in June 2024 as outcry grew over Andrew Do’s diversion of pandemic relief funds. Tony Saavedra, Oc Register, 12 Aug. 2026 Money will also go toward eviction prevention and shelter diversion programs to reduce the strain on winter shelters. Jack Springgate, CBS News, 11 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for diversion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for diversion
Noun
  • Except that’s how the entertainment business works these days, and those deals did pay them millions (the Netflix production deal was reported to be in the $100-million range).
    Culture Critic, Los Angeles Times, 21 Aug. 2026
  • There is a popular misconception that home entertainment has steadily diminished theatrical exhibition.
    Cory Jacobson, HollywoodReporter, 21 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • In a television ad for Dunkin’, Kylie Jenner wore a blush-pink, satin, structured blazer with over-the-top shoulder pads, a designer choice that generated some amusement online from those previously unfamiliar with the brand’s name.
    Beatrice Dupuy, Chicago Tribune, 7 Aug. 2026
  • The press noted with amusement the plight of the court reporter who threw his hands in the air in frustration after trying to transcribe scatting.
    Britannica Editors, Encyclopedia Britannica, 4 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The trivial and the momentous can be connected; small deviations can set us on larger paths.
    Joshua Rothman, New Yorker, 21 Aug. 2026
  • Any deviation from that purpose is an indicator of compromise.
    Morey Haber, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Her 2027 budget proposal would shutter a neighborhood library in Dayton’s Bluff, while cutting hours at recreation centers across the city.
    Frederick Melo, Twin Cities, 16 Aug. 2026
  • The structure will support water treatment, utilities, recreation, commercial facilities, and other essential services within the development.
    Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 15 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • In 2023, Quality Control was acquired by Hybe America, led by Scooter Braun, before his departure as CEO in July 2025.
    Steven J. Horowitz, Variety, 21 Aug. 2026
  • Harry and Meghan’s departure reflected both the larger struggle Black Brits and Americans face and the no-contact rifts that increasingly divide many families.
    Culture Critic, Los Angeles Times, 21 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • But that misses the delight Arzner took in her stars and in the backlot drama of the studios.
    Anne E. Fernald, Literary Hub, 19 Aug. 2026
  • Here again, in this slim book, the narrative unfolds in fragments, every sentence drawing you deeper into the delights of language.
    Amitava Kumar, New Yorker, 19 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • State Highway 121 Around 21 minutes, Two Cups (James Jordan) and Randy (Austin Hébert) are driving Joe’s kids to school and have to take a detour after things get a little suspicious on the roadway.
    Brayden Garcia, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 Aug. 2026
  • Caltrans said there are at least five lanes open in each direction during the day and that there are currently no detours or major traffic shifts blocking the main roadways.
    Carmela Karcher, CBS News, 12 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Leo July 23 – August 22 The fun plan in the group chat may need a little more flexibility today.
    Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 20 Aug. 2026
  • June 21 – July 22 A clear budget can make today’s fun easier to enjoy.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 19 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Diversion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/diversion. Accessed 23 Aug. 2026.

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