1. relating to or involving the bending of light, sound, or other waves when they pass from one medium to another
Usage: physics; optics
2. having the power to refract light or other radiation
Usage: physics; optics

Examples

• The refractive properties of water make objects appear bent when viewed from above.
• Diamond has a high refractive index, which gives it its brilliant sparkle.
• Refractive surgery can correct vision problems like nearsightedness.
• The telescope uses refractive lenses to focus starlight.
• Different materials have different refractive qualities.
• The refractive power of the eye’s lens changes with age.