de·flect v. t. [imp. & p. p. Deflected; p. pr. & vb. n. Deflecting.]  To cause to turn aside; to bend; as, rays of light are often deflected; to deflect a punch; to deflect criticism by acknowledging a mistake.
     Sitting with their knees deflected under them.   --Lord (1630).
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  De·flect·ed, a.
  1. Turned aside; deviating from a direct line or course.
  2. Bent downward; deflexed.
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