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diversionary

American

[dih-vur-zhuh-ner-ee, -shuh-, dahy-] / dɪˈvɜr ʒəˌnɛr i, -ʃə-, daɪ- /

adjective

tending to divert or distract the attention.

diversionary tactics of the guerrilla fighters.

Etymology

Origin of diversionary

First recorded in 1840–50; diversion + -ary

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But European consumer association Foodwatch accused multinationals of focusing on thresholds as a "diversionary tactic".

From Barron's • Feb. 2, 2026

County district attorney’s office said the defendant’s “youth and lack of a criminal record were among the factors considered in” offering him a diversionary plea deal.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 28, 2025

She touted the benefits of a diversionary program for first time, nonviolent offenders that Harris implemented as the district attorney in San Francisco.

From Slate • May 24, 2024

Lines between Bristol Parkway and Swindon, and Westbury and Taunton are blocked by flooding, and trains are running on a diversionary route.

From BBC • Dec. 5, 2023

Tonight, when it was dark, Fangburn would step up the attack on the gatehouse wall as a diversionary measure.

From "Redwall" by Brian Jacques

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023