Definition

Relating to a property of certain materials that have different refractive indices for light polarized in different directions, causing double refraction.

Example

The birefringent crystal split the light into two beams, creating a beautiful effect.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a birefringent material up close?

No, I haven't! What does it look like?

It's fascinating! When you look through it, you can see two different images.

That sounds cool! I’d love to check it out sometime.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Birefringent → It is formed from "bi-" (meaning two) and "refringere" (meaning to break or bend). The word describes a material that has two different refractive indices, causing light to bend in two different ways.

Memory Tip

Think of 'two' ('bi-') ways that light can 'bend' ('refringere') when passing through a birefringent material.

Visually Confused Words