Category:Deflection

De*flec"tion, n. Etym: [L. deflexio, fr. deflectere: cf. F. déflexion.]

1. The act of turning aside, or state of being turned aside; a turning from a right line or proper course; a bending, esp. downward; deviation. The other leads to the same point, through certain deflections. Lowth.

2. (Gunnery)

Defn: The deviation of a shot or ball from its true course.

3. (Opt.)

Defn: A deviation of the rays of light toward the surface of an opaque body; inflection; diffraction.

4. (Engin.)

Defn: The bending which a beam or girder undergoes from its own weight or by reason of a load.