diversion
n. countable B2 Upper Intermediate US //daɪˈvɝʒən// UK //daɪvˈɜːʃən// di·ver·sion
n. something that distracts your attention or changes your course. You use it when a plan is interrupted or when you look away from the main point.
n. an act of turning attention or course away from a primary focus; a temporary interruption or detour.
The loud noise was a pleasant diversion.
The sudden rain served as a diversion from their long walk.
The general ordered a feint attack as a diversion to draw enemy forces away from the main supply route.
From Middle English diversion, dyversioun, from Medieval Latin diversiō, from Latin divertō (“to divert”); see divert.