Deviation — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun /ˌdē-vē-ˈā-shən/ de·vi·a·tion

Meaning & Definition of Deviation

Deviation (noun)

  1. an act or instance of deviating
  2. deflection of the needle of a compass caused by local magnetic influences (as in a ship)
  3. the difference between a value in a frequency distribution and a fixed number (such as the mean)

Deviation (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. a turning away from a course or standard

    "a memoir that was discovered to contain numerous deviations from fact"

    similar: deflection, departure, detour, divagation, divergence, divergency, diversion
    related: regression, retrogression, reversion
    near: adherence

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Deviation

The most common words with a similar meaning to Deviation:

deflection, departure, detour, divagation, divergence, divergency, diversion

Related Words for Deviation

regression, retrogression, reversion

Near Antonyms of Deviation

adherence

Word Forms of Deviation

Derived words: deviationism (noun), deviationist (noun or adjective)

Origin & Etymology of Deviation

First known use: 15th century

Vocabulary Lists & Topics for Deviation

Words & Phrases Containing Deviation

mean deviation, mean square deviation, standard deviation

Frequently Asked Questions about Deviation

What does "Deviation" mean?

"Deviation" means an act or instance of deviating. As a noun, it is defined as: an act or instance of deviating.

What is another word for "Deviation"?

Other words for "Deviation" include deflection, departure, detour, divagation, divergence, divergency and diversion. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Deviation" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Deviation"?

There are 10 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Deviation". Common alternatives include deflection, departure, detour, divagation, divergence, divergency and diversion.

How do you use "Deviation" in a sentence?

Examples of "Deviation" in a sentence: "a memoir that was discovered to contain numerous deviations from fact".

Is "Deviation" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Deviation" is a noun.

Is "Deviation" useful for IELTS, TOEFL, and other English exams?

It is on the Academic Word List, so it appears often in IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, and university texts.

How do you pronounce "Deviation"?

"Deviation" is pronounced /ˌdē-vē-ˈā-shən/ and divided into syllables as de·vi·a·tion.

What is the origin of the word "Deviation"?

First known use: 15th century.