The term DEVIATES FROM A COURSE can be solved by the crossword solutions YAWS (4 letters) and SHEERS (6 letters). YAWS is a type of movement in which an aircraft or ship turns off its intended course, usually due to a gust of wind or other external force. SHEERS, on the other hand, is a type of maneuver in which a boat or ship turns away from its intended course in order to avoid an obstacle or danger. Both of these terms describe a deviation from a planned course.