verb
- to bend or change the direction of light, sound, or other waves as they pass from one medium to another
Usage: physics; optics
Examples
- The prism refracts white light into a rainbow of colors.
- Water refracts light, making objects appear bent when viewed from above.
- The lens refracts incoming light rays to form a clear image.
- Glass refracts light differently than air does.
- The atmosphere refracts starlight, causing stars to twinkle.
- A diamond’s ability to refract light creates its brilliant sparkle.