What is meant by the term digress?

The term "digress" refers specifically to the act of wandering away from the main topic or subject, especially in a conversation or piece of writing. When someone digresses, they might go off on a tangent or introduce unrelated ideas, which can detract from the central theme being discussed. This term is often used in contexts where clarity and focus are essential, such as academic writing or public speaking. In contrast, remaining focused or concluding a discussion represents the opposite of digress, making those options less fitting. Summarizing a point also does not involve straying from the main topic, which reinforces why "to wander from a direct course" is the most accurate description of the term.