refractive
|re-frac-tive|
C1
/rɪˈfræktɪv/
(refract)
bending light
Etymology
Etymology Information
'refractive' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'refractus,' where 're-' meant 'back' and 'frangere' meant 'to break.'
Historical Evolution
'refractus' transformed into the French word 'réfractif,' and eventually became the modern English word 'refractive' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to break back,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'relating to refraction.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
relating to or capable of causing refraction.
The refractive properties of the lens were carefully measured.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/04/29 20:55