DEVIATION Synonyms: 11 Similar and Opposite Words

deviation

noun

ˌdē-vē-ˈā-shən

Definition of deviation

as in departure

a turning away from a course or standard a memoir that was discovered to contain numerous deviations from fact

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

adherence

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of deviation For the remainder of the year, the Global Port Tracker does not forecast too much deviation from the end of 2025. — Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 10 Sep. 2026 In Guha's view, a slight deviation in either direction could make all the difference. — Jeff Cox, CNBC, 8 Sep. 2026 The deviation meant the plane approached the airport while still too high. — Josh Boswell, CBS News, 8 Sep. 2026 Poor execution leads to protocol deviations, delayed data availability, transcription errors and operational inefficiencies that increase risks. — Avik Pal, Forbes.com, 4 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for deviation

Recent Examples of Synonyms for deviation

Noun

The departures show Meta is still shaping its strategy around AI and AI safety amid new calls for regulation in Washington.

— Ashley Gold, semafor.com, 2 Oct. 2026
The group formally processed the vessel’s departure and was trying to avoid violating Panamanian law.

— Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 2 Oct. 2026

Definition of departure

Noun

To detour, drivers should turn left onto Dade Boulevard, then turn left onto West Avenue and turn left to access 17th Street.

— Amaia Gavica, Miami Herald, 3 Oct. 2026
Travelers in the Discovery Park area should also be advised of road and bike trail closures, as well as related detours.

— Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 2 Oct. 2026

Definition of detour

Noun

This divergence in labor market performance by gender can be partially explained by which industries are growing, according to Stahle.

— Alex Harring,Deena Zaidi, CNBC, 2 Oct. 2026
The divergence shows that buyers have become more selective while remaining willing to make significant bets when the strategic rationale is strong.

— Rusty Wiley, Forbes.com, 1 Oct. 2026

Definition of divergence

Noun

The Kansas State alum recorded 76 tackles (seven for loss), seven pass deflections, two interceptions and two sacks as a rookie.

— PJ Green September 24, Kansas City Star, 24 Sep. 2026
Each whisker is packed with sensitive nerve endings at its base that detect tiny deflections, vibrations, and pressure changes when brushing against surfaces.

— Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 18 Sep. 2026

Definition of deflection

Browse Nearby Words

deviating

deviation

deviations

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Deviation.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deviation. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of deviation

noun

Example Sentences

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