"refraction" Definition

Definitions for the word "refraction" from multiple English dictionaries.

1. n.
The act of refracting, or the state of being refracted.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. n.
The change in the direction of ray of light, heat, or the like, when it enters obliquely a medium of a different density from that through which it has previously moved.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. n.
The change in the direction of a ray of light, and, consequently, in the apparent position of a heavenly body from which it emanates, arising from its passage through the earth's atmosphere; -- hence distinguished as atmospheric refraction, or astronomical refraction.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. n.
The correction which is to be deducted from the apparent altitude of a heavenly body on account of atmospheric refraction, in order to obtain the true altitude.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913

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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "refraction" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "refraction" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history. The page also includes other information to help users expand their vocabulary and understand the context of the word.

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