rɪˈfrækt

Definitions

1. verb

to bend or split light as it passes from one medium into another with a different optical density

“The prism refracted the sunlight into a beautiful rainbow.”

2. verb

to cause something to bend or split as it passes from one medium into another with a different optical density

“The lens refracts the light to form an image on the screen.”

3. verb

to break or shatter (something, especially a bone) under a sudden or unexpected force

“The impact refracted the athlete’s leg, leaving him with a severe injury.”

4. noun

the act of bending or splitting light as it passes from one medium into another with a different optical density

“The refract of the light through the prism was quite fascinating.”