refraction

noun re·frac·tion \ri-ˈfrak-shən\

Definition of REFRACTION

: deflection from a straight path undergone by a light ray or energy wave in passing obliquely from one medium (as air) into another (as glass) in which its velocity is different

: the change in the apparent position of a celestial body due to bending of the light rays emanating from it as they pass through the atmosphere; also : the correction to be applied to the apparent position of a body because of this bending

: the action of distorting an image by viewing through a medium; also : an instance of this

See refraction defined for kids

Illustration of REFRACTION

First Known Use of REFRACTION

1603

Rhymes with REFRACTION

abstraction, attraction, bolt-action, class action, compaction, contraction, cross action, detraction, diffraction, distraction, exaction, extraction, impaction, inaction, infraction, job action, live-action, olfaction, protraction, reaction, redaction, retraction, stop-action, subtraction, transaction

REFRACTION Defined for Kids

refraction

noun re·frac·tion \ri-ˈfrak-shən\

Definition of REFRACTION for Kids

: the bending of a ray when it passes at an angle from one medium into another in which its speed is different (as when light passes from air into water)

Medical Dictionary

refraction

noun re·frac·tion \ri-ˈfrak-shən\

Medical Definition of REFRACTION

: the deflection from a straight path undergone by a light ray or a wave of energy in passing obliquely from one medium (as air) into another (as water or glass) in which its velocity is different

a : the refractive power of the eye b : the act or technique of determining ocular refraction and identifying abnormalities as a basis for the prescription of corrective lenses