divergence

[dih-vur-juhns, dahy-]

noun

1. the act, fact, or amount of diverging.

   a divergence in opinion.

   Synonyms: deviation, variation, division, separation
   Antonyms: convergence

2. (in physics, meteorology, etc.) the total amount of flux escaping an infinitesimal volume at a point in a vector field, as the net flow of air from a given region.

3. Ophthalmology.,  a turning motion of the eyeballs outward in relation to each other.

4. Electronics.,  the spreading of a stream of electrons resulting from their mutual electrostatic repulsion.

divergence

/ daɪˈvɜːdʒəns /

noun

1. the act or result of diverging or the amount by which something diverges

2. the condition of being divergent

3. meteorol the outflowing of airstreams from a particular area, caused by expanding air

4. maths

   1. the scalar product of the operator, ∇, and a vector function, A , where ∇= i ∂/∂ x + j ∂/∂ y + k ∂/∂ z , and i , j , and k are unit vectors. Usually written: div A , ∇ A , or ∇A. See curl gradient

   2. the property of being divergent

5. the spreading of a stream of electrons as a result of their mutual electrostatic repulsion

6. the turning of the eyes outwards in order to fixate an object farther away than that previously being fixated Compare convergence

7. Also called: divergent evolution. the evolutionary development of structures or organisms that differ from each other in form and function but have evolved from the same basic structure or organism Compare convergence

divergence

1. Mathematics,  The property or manner of failing to approach a limit, such as a point, line, or value.

2. Biology,  The evolution of different forms or structures in related species as they adapt to different environments. An example of divergence is the development of wings in bats from the same bones that form the arm and hand or paw in most other mammals.

3. Biology,  Also called divergent evolution

4. Biology,  Compare convergence

Other Word Forms

• nondivergence noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of divergence¹

From the Medieval Latin word dīvergentia, dating back to 1650–60. See diverge, -ence

Example Sentences

The problem with gender essentialism is that even a solitary divergence suggests that the “natural law” is not, in fact, a law.

From Salon

Speculation over an expanded offensive have also exposed divergences between some of Israel's international allies.

From BBC

There’s a clear divergence in health policy choices.

From Salon

In the divergence of these answers lies the company’s extraordinary legacy.

From Los Angeles Times

“He’s not a divergence,” said Noah Bullock, the director of Cristosal, a human rights group.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• discrepancy 
• disparity 
• distinction 
• diversity