Refraction (noun)

1. The bending of light as it passes through a medium with a different density, causing it to change direction.
2. The process by which a wave or particle changes direction as it passes through a material.
3. The degree to which a lens or curved surface bends or distorts light or other radiation.

Origin:

The word 'refraction' is derived from the latin word 'refractio', which means 'a breaking'. it has its roots in optics, where it refers to the bending of light as it passes through a medium with a different density.

Examples:

1. The refraction of light passing through the water caused the fish to appear distorted.
2. The refraction of the laser beam was measured and calculated to determine its properties.
3. The refraction of the light through the prism split it into the colors of the rainbow.
4. The eye's refraction is measured during an eye exam to determine if a person needs glasses.
5. The refraction of sound waves through the atmosphere caused the sound to travel further.