divert
UK: daɪˈvɜːt | US: daɪˈvɜːrt
vt. to turn aside or redirect from one course to another
vt. to distract or entertain by diverting attention
vi. (archaic) to turn aside; deviate
divert = di<apart> + vert<turn>
- di- (prefix): From Latin dis-, meaning "apart" or "away."
- vert (root): From Latin vertere, meaning "to turn."
Etymology Origin:
The word "divert" traces back to Latin divertere, combining dis- (apart) and vertere (to turn). It originally described physically turning something away, later expanding metaphorically to include redirecting attention or resources. The root vert appears in many English words (e.g., "convert," "revert"), reflecting its foundational role in expressing directional change.
The construction diverted traffic to a side road.
She diverted the conversation to avoid an awkward topic.
The magician’s tricks diverted the audience’s attention.
The river was diverted to irrigate the farmland.
He diverted his savings into a new business venture.