digression

n. [ L. digressio: cf. F. digression. ] 1. The act of digressing or deviating, esp. from the main subject of a discourse; hence, a part of a discourse deviating from its main design or subject. [ 1913 Webster ]

The digressions I can not excuse otherwise, than by the confidence that no man will read them. Sir W. Temple. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. A turning aside from the right path; transgression; offense. [ R. ] [ 1913 Webster ]

Then my digression is so vile, so base,
That it will live engraven in my face. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Anat.) The elongation, or angular distance from the sun; -- said chiefly of the inferior planets. [ R. ] [ 1913 Webster ]