1. bends or changes the direction of light, sound, or other waves as they pass from one medium to another
Usage: physics; third person singular present tense

Examples

• The prism refracts white light into a rainbow of colors.
• Water refracts light, making objects appear bent when viewed from above.
• The lens refracts incoming light rays to form a clear image.
• Glass refracts light differently than air does.
• The atmosphere refracts starlight, causing stars to twinkle.
• A diamond refracts light beautifully due to its crystal structure.