deflective

[ dih-flek-tiv ]

adjective

1. causing deflection.

Other Words From

• nonde·flective adjective
• unde·flective adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of deflective¹

First recorded in 1805–15; deflect + -ive

Example Sentences

Dr. Orna Guralnik helps these pairs interrogate their feelings, communicate better and see their behaviors more clearly, often despite the patients’ best deflective efforts.

From New York Times

Smith also recommends a deflective approach for invading jackets, hair or feet.

From Seattle Times

And he offered his deflective auto-response to several inquiries whose answers seemed easily retrieved.

From Washington Post

Or maybe I’m just tone policing, being thin-skinned, defensive and deflective.

From New York Times

“To this day, Principal Clare has never addressed the concerns raised by the Plaintiff’s parents, instead opting to be evasive and deflective,” according to the complaint.

From Los Angeles Times