deflects

1. prevent the occurrence of; prevent from happeningExamples: "Let's avoid a confrontation"; "head off a confrontation"; "avert a strike"Synonyms: avert, avoid, debar, deflect, fend off, forefend, forfend, head off

2. turn from a straight course, fixed direction, or line of interestSynonyms: bend, deflect, turn away

3. turn aside and away from an initial or intended courseSynonyms: deflect

4. draw someone's attention away from somethingExamples: "The thief distracted the bystanders"; "He deflected his competitors"Synonyms: deflect, distract

5. impede the movement of (an opponent or a ball)Examples: "block an attack"Synonyms: block, deflect, parry