Detoured

/dɪˈtʊrd/ verb

Definition

Took an alternative or longer route instead of the direct path, usually because the main route was blocked or unavailable.

Etymology

From detour (from French détour, from détourner, 'to turn aside') in past tense. The French word combines de- (away) + tour (turn), literally 'a turning away.'

Kelly Says

In construction, 'detoured' is so common that road signs basically announce it daily, but the French origin tells you something cool—it was originally about *deliberately turning away* from something, not just going around an obstacle.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.