Refractive (Adjective)
Meaning 1
Of or relating to or capable of refraction; "the refractive characteristics of the eye".
Classification
Relational adjectives (pertainyms).
Synonyms
Related Words
Meaning 2
Capable of changing the direction (of a light or sound wave).
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Examples
- Light passes through a refractive medium, such as water or glass, and changes direction.
- The lens is refractive and bends the light as it passes through, creating a clear image.
- Refractive surfaces can cause sound waves to change direction, resulting in echos or distortions.
- Water droplets on a lens can be refractive, making the resulting photo appear blurry.
- Mirrors have refractive qualities that help concentrate sound or light, and thus focus an image or enhance resonance.