Refraction

C1 16+

Pronunciation: /rɪˈfrækʃən/

Definitions of refraction

noun the bending of light when it passes from one medium to another

Example Sentences

A1 Refraction is the bending of light when it passes through different materials.

A2 The teacher explained how refraction causes a pencil in a glass of water to appear bent.

B1 The photographer used a prism to create a beautiful refraction effect in the image.

B2 Scientists study refraction to better understand how light behaves in various mediums.

C1 The artist's installation used mirrors to create intricate patterns of refraction throughout the room.

C2 Advanced research in optics has led to breakthroughs in controlling and manipulating refraction for various applications.

Examples of refraction in a Sentence

formal The refraction of light through a prism results in the separation of colors.

informal When light goes through a prism, it bends and makes a rainbow.

slang Dude, did you see that light show? It was like the refraction was off the charts!

figurative Her perspective on the situation underwent a refraction, leading to a new understanding.

Grammatical Forms of refraction

past tense

refracted

plural

refractions

comparative

more refractive

superlative

most refractive

present tense

refracts

future tense

will refract

perfect tense

has refracted

continuous tense

is refracting

singular

refraction

positive degree

refractive

infinitive

to refract

gerund

refracting

participle

refracting

Origin and Evolution of refraction

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'refraction' originates from the Latin word 'refractio', which means 'breaking up' or 'bending'.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the word 'refraction' has retained its original meaning of the bending of light or other waves as they pass from one medium to another. It has also been extended to refer to the bending or changing of direction of anything that passes through different mediums.