digress

[ dih-gres, dahy- ]

verb (used without object)

1. to deviate or wander away from the main topic or purpose in speaking or writing; depart from the principal line of argument, plot, study, etc.

   Synonyms: stray, ramble

2. Archaic. to turn aside.

digress

/ daɪˈɡrɛs /

verb

1. to depart from the main subject in speech or writing
2. to wander from one's path or main direction

Derived Forms

• diˈgresser, noun

Other Words From

• di·gresser noun
• di·gressing·ly adverb
• redi·gress verb (used without object)

Word History and Origins

Origin of digress¹

First recorded in 1520–30; from Latin dīgressus “departed,” past participle of dīgredī “to go off, depart, digress,” from dī- di- ² + -gredī (combining form of gradī “to go”; grade )

Word History and Origins

Origin of digress¹

C16: from Latin dīgressus turned aside, from dīgredī, from dis- apart + gradī to go

Synonym Study

See deviate.

Example Sentences

But Trump inevitably digressed to his usual meandering stump speech which he delivered in ever desperate tones to an audience that was more often silent than not.

From Salon

Trump generally attempted to continue the overall theme of national unity that kept coming up this week at the party convention - but at several points he digressed into sharp attacks on Democrats and their policies.

From BBC

“Look at that beautiful lake,” he said, digressing.

From New York Times

But I digress . . . and I do not want to leave you without these last words.

From Salon

That may be going a bit too far, but I digress.

From Salon

Related Words

• meander