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

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

The more lies Republicans tell, the less their supporters trust fair and accurate news outlets, whose stories diverge from those lies.

From Slate

In retrospect, that Saturday was when the timelines of the two Americas truly began to diverge.

From Los Angeles Times

They diverge when it comes to trade with the region.

From Los Angeles Times

From there, however, the two start to diverge.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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