Definify.com
Webster 1913 Edition
Deflection
De-flec′tion
,Noun.
[L.
deflexio
, fr. deflectere
: cf. F. déflexion
.] 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.
(Gunnery)
The deviation of a shot or ball from its true course.
3.
(Opt.)
A deviation of the rays of light toward the surface of an opaque body; inflection; diffraction.
4.
(Engin.)
The bending which a beam or girder undergoes from its own weight or by reason of a load.
Webster 1828 Edition
Deflection
DEFLECTION
, n.1.
Deviation; the act of turning aside; a turning from a true line or the regular course.2.
The departure of a ship from its true course.3.
A deviation of the rays of light towards the surface of an opake body; inflection.