Definition

The quality or ability of a substance to bend or change the direction of light when it passes through it.

Example

The refrangibleness of the glass allowed it to create beautiful patterns of light.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about the refrangibleness of different materials?

Not really, what do you mean by that?

Well, I was reading about how some substances bend light better than others due to their refrangibleness.

That sounds interesting! I’d love to learn more about it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Refrangibleness → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again), "frangere" (meaning to break), and "-ness" (meaning the state of being). The word refers to the state of being able to be broken again or the quality of being breakable.

Memory Tip

Think of something that can be 'broken again' — 're-' means again, 'frangere' means to break, and '-ness' indicates a state. This helps you remember that 'refrangibleness' refers to the quality of being breakable.

Visually Confused Words