First Known Use: 1898
Dictionary
birefringence
noun bi·re·frin·gence \ˌbī-ri-ˈfrin-jən(t)s\
Definition of BIREFRINGENCE
: the refraction of light in an anisotropic material (as calcite) in two slightly different directions to form two rays
— bi·re·frin·gent \-jənt\ adjective
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Origin of BIREFRINGENCE
International Scientific Vocabulary 1bi- + refringent refracting, from Latin refringent-, refringens, present participle of refringere to break up — more at refract
Medical Dictionary
birefringence
noun bi·re·frin·gence \ˌbī-ri-ˈfrin-jən(t)s\
Medical Definition of BIREFRINGENCE
: the refraction of light in an anisotropic material in two slightly different directions to form two rays
—bi·re·frin·gent \-jənt\ adjective
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