from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Divert \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.
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That crude apple that diverted Eve. --Milton.
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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.
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We are amused by a tale, diverted by a comedy. --C.
J. Smith.
Syn: To please; gratify; amuse; entertain; exhilarate;
delight; recreate. See {Amuse}.
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