Di*vert" (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Diverted; p. pr. & vb. n. Diverting.] [F. divertir, fr. L. divertere, diversum, to go different ways, turn aside; di- = dis- + vertere to turn. See Verse, and cf. Divorce.]

1.

To turn aside; to turn off from any course or intended application; to deflect; as, to divert a river from its channel; to divert commerce from its usual course.

That crude apple that diverted Eve. Milton.

2.

To turn away from any occupation, business, or study; to cause to have lively and agreeable sensations; to amuse; to entertain; as, children are diverted with sports; men are diverted with works of wit and humor.

We are amused by a tale, diverted by a comedy. C. J. Smith.

Syn. -- To please; gratify; amuse; entertain; exhilarate; delight; recreate. See Amuse.

 

© Webster 1913.


Di*vert", v. i.

To turn aside; to digress.

[Obs.]

I diverted to see one of the prince's palaces. Evelyn.

 

© Webster 1913.

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