Di*vert" (?), v. t. [imp. & p. p. Diverted; p. pr. & vb. n. Diverting.] [F. divertir, fr. L. divertere, diversum, to go different ways, turn aside; di- = dis- + vertere to turn. See Verse, and cf. Divorce.]
1.
To turn aside; to turn off from any course or intended application; to deflect; as, to divert a river from its channel; to divert commerce from its usual course.
That crude apple that diverted Eve.
Milton.
2.
To turn away from any occupation, business, or study; to cause to have lively and agreeable sensations; to amuse; to entertain; as, children are diverted with sports; men are diverted with works of wit and humor.
We are amused by a tale, diverted by a comedy.
C. J. Smith.
Syn. -- To please; gratify; amuse; entertain; exhilarate; delight; recreate. See Amuse.
© Webster 1913.
Di*vert", v. i.
To turn aside; to digress.
[Obs.]
I diverted to see one of the prince's palaces.
Evelyn.
© Webster 1913.