diffract, v.tr. Physics (of the edge of an opaque body, a narrow slit, etc.) break up (a beam of light) into a series of dark or light bands or coloured spectra, or (a beam of radiation or particles) into a series of alternately high and low intensities.

Derivative

diffraction n. diffractive adj. diffractively adv.

Etymology

L diffringere diffract- (as DIS-, frangere break)

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