1. (n.) 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.

2. (n.) The deviation of a shot or ball from its true course.

3. (n.) A deviation of the rays of light toward the surface of an opaque body; inflection; diffraction.

4. (n.) The bending which a beam or girder undergoes from its own weight or by reason of a load.

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