to turn aside or from a path or course; deflect.

British . to route (traffic) on a detour.

to draw off to a different course, purpose, etc.

to distract from serious occupation; entertain or amuse.

to turn aside; veer

It is sad to see so much talent divert to trivial occupations.

verb

be direct , keep to , maintain , stay , anger , irritate , make mad , upset

verb

alter , avert , change , deflect , modify , pivot , redirect , sheer , swerve , switch , turn aside , veer , volte-face , wheel , whip , whirl , beguile , break one up , delight , fracture one , get one’s jollies , gladden , gratify , knock ‘em dead , make happy , panic , please , put ‘em away , recreate , regale , relax , slay , tickle , wow , abstract , attract attention , bend the rules , catch flies , circumlocute , detach , deter , detract , disadvise , discourage , disengage , dissuade , distract , disturb , draw away , get around , lead astray , lead away , send on a wild-goose chase , sidetrack , stall , deviate , shift , swing , entertain , amuse , avoid