Noun: refraction ri'frak-shun
- The change in direction of a propagating wave (light or sound) when passing from one medium to another
"The refraction of light in water causes objects to appear closer than they actually are"
- The amount by which a propagating wave is bent
"The refraction was measured in degrees to determine the lens's optical properties";
- deflection, deflexion [Brit]
Derived forms: refractions
Type of: bend, bending, physical phenomenon
Encyclopedia: Refraction, ocular