Deviation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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deviation

[ˌdiː.viˈeɪ.ʃən ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

statistical analysis

The amount by which a single measurement differs from a fixed value such as the mean. Deviation is a measure of how far data points in a data set are from the average. It can be positive or negative depending on whether the data point is above or below the mean.

Synonyms

discrepancy, divergence, variance.

Examples of usage

  • There was a significant deviation in the test results from the expected values.
  • The standard deviation is a common measure of the spread of data points in a dataset.
Context #2 | Noun

behavior

A departure from an accepted standard or norm. It involves acting in a way that is different from what is considered usual or typical. Deviation can be intentional or unintentional.

Synonyms

aberration, deviance, divergence.

Examples of usage

  • Her deviation from the company's dress code raised some eyebrows.
  • The child's behavior showed a clear deviation from the norm.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In statistics, deviation refers to how far a number is from the average of a set.
  • There's a specific measurement called standard deviation that helps understand variations in data sets, reflecting how spread out the numbers are.

Psychology

  • In psychology, deviation from social norms can influence diagnoses of mental health disorders.
  • Research has shown that cultural context plays a key role in defining what is considered normal versus deviant behavior.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often depict characters who deviate from societal norms, presenting them as either heroes or outcasts.
  • The concept of deviation is central in works of literature exploring themes of individuality versus conformity.

Science

  • In genetics, deviation can refer to variations in the genetic code that lead to differences in traits among individuals.
  • Climate scientists study deviation in weather patterns to understand shifts in climate change over time.

Origin of 'deviation'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'deviation' comes from the Latin word 'deviatio', meaning 'to turn away'.
  • It originally described the act of diverging from a set course or path, both literally and figuratively.

The word 'deviation' originated from the Latin word 'deviatio', which means 'a turning aside'. It has been used in English since the 15th century. Over time, 'deviation' has come to be commonly used in various fields such as statistics, psychology, and behavior analysis.


See also: deviant, deviating, deviations, undeviating.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,594, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.