verb (v)

• prevent the occurrence of; prevent from happening(verb.social)

  Synonym:
  avert, avoid, debar, fend off, forefend, forfend, head off, obviate, stave off, ward off
  

  source: wordnet30
• turn from a straight course, fixed direction, or line of interest(verb.motion)

  Synonym:
  bend, turn away
  

  source: wordnet30
• turn aside and away from an initial or intended course(verb.motion)

  source: wordnet30
• draw someone's attention away from something(verb.emotion)

  Example:
  He deflected his competitors.
  

  Synonym:
  distract
  

  source: wordnet30
• impede the movement of (an opponent or a ball)(verb.competition)

  Synonym:
  block, parry
  

  source: wordnet30
• To cause to turn aside; to bend; as, rays of light are often deflected.(verb)

  source: webster1913
• To turn aside; to deviate from a right or a horizontal line, or from a proper position, course or direction; to swerve.(verb)

  source: webster1913