Definition of "deflect"

(transitive) To make (something) deviate from its original path.  examples

(transitive, ball games) To touch the ball, often unwittingly, after a shot or a sharp pass, thereby making it unpredictable for the other players.  examples

(intransitive) To deviate from its original path.  examples

(transitive, figuratively) To avoid addressing (questions, criticism, etc.).  examples

(transitive, figuratively) To divert (attention, etc.).  quotations  examples