noun B2 Upper-Intermediate Uncommon

diversion

deye-VUR-shuhn

Diversion (noun) means something done to distract attention from what is really happening. Example: “The robbers created a diversion outside while their partner slipped in the back door.”

noun

Something done to distract attention from what is really happening.

"The robbers created a diversion outside while their partner slipped in the back door."

"He asked an odd question just to create a diversion from the awkward silence."

A hobby or activity that takes your mind off other things.

"Gardening became her favourite diversion during the long winter months."

A temporary alternate route, especially one put in place during roadworks.

"There's a diversion on the motorway due to bridge repairs."

"Follow the signs for the diversion around the closed high street."

How to use diversion

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSomething that pulls attention or traffic away from its normal path — whether that's a distraction, a hobby, or a detour on the road.

UK vs US

In British English, "diversion" is the standard word for a road detour; American English usually says "detour" instead.

Common pairings

create a diversion a welcome diversion traffic diversion

Word forms

diversions plural

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Fill the gap

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The robbers created a _____ outside while their partner slipped in the back door.

Etymology

From Middle English diversion, ultimately from Latin divertere, "to turn aside" — the same root as divert.

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

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feint

Related words

feint

Rhymes for diversion

region ablation allusion emulsion ideation novation abortion abrasion diffusion elocution extension oxidation

See all rhymes for diversion →

Frequently asked questions

What does “diversion” mean?

The word “diversion” means something done to distract attention from what is really happening. In plain terms, something that pulls attention or traffic away from its normal path — whether that's a distraction, a hobby, or a detour on the road.

How do you pronounce “diversion”?

“Diversion” is pronounced deye-VUR-shuhn (/dɪˈvɝ.ʒən/ in IPA).

How do you use “diversion” in a sentence?

Here is “diversion” used in a sentence: “The robbers created a diversion outside while their partner slipped in the back door.”

What is another word for “diversion”?

Words with a similar meaning to “diversion” include feint.

What part of speech is “diversion”?

“Diversion” is a noun.

Where does the word “diversion” come from?

The word “diversion” comes from Latin. From Middle English diversion, ultimately from Latin divertere, "to turn aside" — the same root as divert.

Is “diversion” a common word?

“Diversion” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

How many meanings does “diversion” have?

“Diversion” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: something done to distract attention from what is really happening.

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