Search Dictionary
Definition of indirection

indirection

/ˌɪndəˈrɛkʃən/
in · di · rec · tion
Adverb:indirectly
•
Plural:indirections
•
Adjective:indirect
JUMP TO:

indirection Lexical Profile

indirection Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Indirectness or a lack of straightforwardness in action, speech, or procedure; the use of roundabout or evasive means.

Example

"The diplomat relied on subtle indirection rather than blunt demands to negotiate the treaty."

2

In computer programming, the ability to reference data using a name, reference, or pointer instead of the value itself.

Example

"Adding a layer of indirection through pointers allows the software to manage memory more flexibly."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for indirection
Antonyms
View all antonyms for indirection

• Rhymes for indirection

• Nearby Words

indigo snake
indigofera
indirect
indirection
indirectly
indirectness
indiscernible

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 15th century from Late Latin indirectio, formed from the prefix in- ('not') and directio ('a making straight or aiming'), from Latin dirigere ('to set straight').

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Indirection. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/indirection
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.