diversion

Universal Words noun 1 [C,U] the act of changing the direction that sb/sth is following, or what sth is used for: a river diversion project * We made a short diversion to go and look at the castle. * the diversion of funds from the public to the private sector of industry 2 [C] something that takes your attention away from sb/sth while sth else is happening: For the government, the war was a welcome diversion from the country's economic problems. * A smoke bomb created a diversion while the robbery took place. 3 [C] (BrE) (AmE detour) a road or route that is used when the usual one is closed: Diversions will be signposted. 4 [C] (formal) an activity that is done for pleasure, especially because it takes your attention away from sth else: The party will make a pleasant diversion. * The city is full of diversions.