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v. di·verged, di·verg·ing, di·verg·es v.intr. 1. To go or extend in different directions from a common point; branch out: "All modern species diverged from a set of ancestors" (Jennifer Ackerman). 2. a. To depart from an established pattern or norm; deviate. b. To be different, as in opinion or manner; differ: Opinions diverged within the government on how to deal with the crisis. See Synonyms at swerve. 3. Mathematics To fail to approach a limit. v.tr. To cause (light rays, for example) to diverge; deflect. [Latin dīvergere : Latin dī-, dis-, apart; see DIS- + Latin vergere, to bend; see wer-2 in the Appendix of Indo-European roots.] |
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