adjective

divergent

dye-VUR-junt/daɪˈvɜːrdʒənt/

Differing from something else or developing in a different direction.

The walkers take divergent paths, leaving the same starting point in different directions.

Two walkers leave common starting spot and take sharply different directions at simple Y fork, footsteps outward; tiny path fragment only, no trees or scenery.

Etymology

diLatinapart

+vergLatinto bend, turn, tend toward

+entLatinpresent-participle ending

The pieces describe something turning or tending apart. Originally applied to things extending in different directions from a common point, the word also describes developments or characteristics following different courses.

In context

Ralph W. Campbell29:27

considering our divergent aims and difference of station it is surprising how few differences of opinion occur nonetheless friction lurked beneath the surface

Shackleton Documentary Shackleton Story Shackleton's Voyage of Endurance english subtitles

More examples

Their careers follow divergent paths after college.
The witnesses give divergent accounts of the accident.
The two studies produce sharply divergent results.

Forms

divergent

diverge verb — To differ or move in different directions.

divergence noun — A difference or movement in separate directions.

Similar words

dissimilar: Emphasizes unlike qualities rather than development in different directions.
conflicting: Implies direct incompatibility, not simply a difference in character.