01 n. The act of turning aside, or state of being turned aside; a turning from a right line or proper course; a bending, esp. downward; deviation.
-
1.
The act of turning aside, or state of being turned aside; a turning from a right line or proper course; a bending, esp. downward; deviation.“The other leads to the same point, through certain deflections.” — Lowth.
-
2.
The deviation of a shot or ball from its true course.(Gunnery)
-
3.
A deviation of the rays of light toward the surface of an opaque body; inflection; diffraction.(Opt.)
-
4.
The bending which a beam or girder undergoes from its own weight or by reason of a load.(Engin.)