To depart from an established course, standard, or norm; to diverge from what is expected or typical.
From Latin 'deviatus,' past participle of 'deviare' (to turn aside from the road), from 'de-' (away from) and 'via' (road, way). The literal meaning of leaving the road evolved into the figurative sense of departing from norms. Entered English in the 17th century.
Deviate literally means to leave the road or path - imagine a GPS recalculating because you took a wrong turn. Whether it's a physical path or a plan, you're going off the expected route!
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