1. telescopes that use lenses to gather and focus light
Usage: astronomy
2. materials or substances that bend light rays as they pass through
Usage: optics; physics

Examples

• The observatory houses several large refractors for planetary observation.
• Amateur astronomers often prefer refractors for viewing the moon and planets.
• These refractors provide crisp, high-contrast images of celestial objects.
• The antique refractors in the museum date back to the 19th century.
• Glass and water are common refractors that bend light predictably.
• Scientists tested various refractors to determine their optical properties.