Definition

Able to bend light or other waves as they pass through a medium, changing their direction.

Example

The refractile properties of the glass made it ideal for use in lenses.

Conversation

Did you see those new glass sculptures at the gallery?

Yes, they looked so refractile under the light!

I know, right? They really create such beautiful patterns.

Absolutely! It's amazing how light can change everything.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Refractile → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "frangere" (meaning to break). The word describes the ability to break or bend light again, as in the case of materials that can refract light.

Memory Tip

Think of light 'breaking again' when it passes through a refractile material, as 're-' means again and 'frangere' means to break.

Visually Confused Words