/di verr"zheuhn, -sheuhn, duy-/ , n.
1. the act of diverting or turning aside, as from a course or purpose: a diversion of industry into the war effort.
2. a channel made to divert the flow of water from one course to another or to direct the flow of water draining from a piece of ground.
3. Brit. a detour on a highway or road.
4. distraction from business, care, etc.; recreation; amusement; a pastime: Movies are his favorite diversion.
5. Mil. a feint intended to draw off attention from the point of main attack.
[ 1590-1600; diversion- (s. of diversio ), equiv. to L divers ( us ) DIVERSE + -ion- -ION ]