digress

American  

[dih-gres, dahy-] / dɪˈgrɛs, daɪ- /

verb (used without object)

1. to deviate or wander away from the main topic or purpose in speaking or writing; depart from the principal line of argument, plot, study, etc.

   Synonyms:

   stray, ramble

2. Archaic. to turn aside.

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digress British  

/ daɪˈɡrɛs /

verb

1. to depart from the main subject in speech or writing

2. to wander from one's path or main direction

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Related Words

See deviate.

Other Word Forms

• digresser noun
• digressingly adverb
• redigress verb (used without object)

Etymology

Origin of digress

First recorded in 1520–30; from Latin dīgressus “departed,” past participle of dīgredī “to go off, depart, digress,” from dī- di- ² + -gredī (combining form of gradī “to go”; grade )

Example Sentences

If we really want to talk about moral failings, perhaps we should ask predatory lenders to join the chat—but I digress.

From Slate • Mar. 28, 2024

Premium subscriptions are just a click away if you’re feeling froggy, but we digress.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 12, 2023

But I digress — this is supposed to be a positive column.

From Seattle Times • May 3, 2023

I’m sure there’s no strategic advantage to examining a superior changeling ship’s technology when many of them have taken over Starfleet, but we digress.

From New York Times • Apr. 6, 2023

But though I can digress with the best of them, I am nothing in my soul if not obsessive.

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt

Related Words

• meander