diverge

[dih-vurj, dahy-]

verb (used without object)

diverged, diverging 

1. to move, lie, or extend in different directions from a common point; branch off.

   Synonyms: fork, deviate, separate

2. to differ in opinion, character, form, etc.; deviate.

3. Mathematics.,  (of a sequence, series, etc.) to have no unique limit; to have infinity as a limit.

4. to turn aside or deviate, as from a path, practice, or plan.

verb (used with object)

diverged, diverging 

1. to deflect or turn aside.

diverge

/ daɪˈvɜːdʒ /

verb

1. to separate or cause to separate and go in different directions from a point

2. (intr) to be at variance; differ

   our opinions diverge

3. (intr) to deviate from a prescribed course

4. (intr) maths (of a series or sequence) to have no limit

Other Word Forms

• nondiverging adjective
• undiverging adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of diverge¹

First recorded in 1655–65; from Medieval Latin dīvergere, from Latin dī- di- ² + vergere “to incline”

Word History and Origins

Origin of diverge¹

C17: from Medieval Latin dīvergere, from Latin _di- ² + vergere to turn

Synonym Study

See deviate.

Example Sentences

For all her passion about what she sees as institutional injustice, Lauper takes a generous view of individuals whose politics diverge from hers.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The written address marks the fifth year in a row that Newsom has diverged from the decades-old tradition of the governor delivering the annual address in person to lawmakers at the state Capitol.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Short-term political interests of a president often diverge from sound long-term fiscal policy.

Read more on Salon

For the first time in 30 years, the American Academy of Pediatrics is substantially diverging from U.S. government vaccine recommendations.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The visit was tightly controlled, with guides and guards accompanying them and a fixed itinerary that could not be diverged from without permission from North Korean authorities.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• deviate 
• differ 
• disagree 
• dissent 
• stray 
• vary