diverge

[ dih-vurj, dahy- ]

verb (used without object)

, di·verged, di·verg·ing.

1. to move, lie, or extend in different directions from a common point; branch off.

   Synonyms: fork, deviate, separate

2. to differ in opinion, character, form, etc.; deviate.
3. Mathematics. (of a sequence, series, etc.) to have no unique limit; to have infinity as a limit.
4. to turn aside or deviate, as from a path, practice, or plan.

verb (used with object)

, di·verged, di·verg·ing.

1. to deflect or turn aside.

diverge

/ daɪˈvɜːdʒ /

verb

1. to separate or cause to separate and go in different directions from a point
2. intr to be at variance; differ

   our opinions diverge

3. intr to deviate from a prescribed course
4. intr maths (of a series or sequence) to have no limit

Other Words From

• nondi·verging adjective
• undi·verging adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of diverge¹

First recorded in 1655–65; from Medieval Latin dīvergere, from Latin dī- di- ² + vergere “to incline”

Word History and Origins

Origin of diverge¹

C17: from Medieval Latin dīvergere, from Latin di- ² + vergere to turn

Synonym Study

See deviate.

Example Sentences

"After duplication, the majority of genes are still in pairs; however, they show different expression patterns, and many have functionally diverged to regulate different traits," Ma said.

From Science Daily

Earlier in the day, Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar diverged from Sir Keir by pledging to increase eligibility for pension credit if they formed the next government.

From BBC

How can these diverse and seemingly diverging demands be met?

From Science Daily

Because each of these models uses different maths and physics, the forecasts they provide may start to diverge over time, showing different outcomes.

From BBC

Both campaigns emphasised these diverging issues in recent weeks, and it’s clear the messaging cut through.

From BBC

Related Words

• deviate
• differ
• disagree
• dissent
• stray
• vary