n.1 a the act of diverting; deviation. b an instance of this.
2 a the diverting of attention deliberately. b a stratagem for this purpose (created a diversion to secure their escape).
3 a recreation or pastime.
4 Brit. an alternative route when a road is temporarily closed to traffic.
Derivatives:
diversional adj. diversionary adj.
Etymology: LL diversio (as DIVERT)