We use cookies to enhance your experience on our website. By continuing to use our website, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time. Find out more

Subscriber login

Library card login

Other

X Close menu

Dictionary Language resources

refract

Pronunciation: /rɪˈfrakt/

Translate refract | into German

Definition of refract

verb

[with object]

(of water, air, or glass) make (a ray of light) change direction when it enters at an angle:the rays of light are refracted by the material of the lens
measure the focusing characteristics of (an eye) or of the eyes of (someone): when refracting patients an ophthalmologist relies on verbal reports