diffraction

dif·frac·tion

noun \di-ˈfrak-shən\

Definition of DIFFRACTION

: a modification which light undergoes especially in passing by the edges of opaque bodies or through narrow openings and in which the rays appear to be deflected; also : a similar modification of other waves (as sound waves) or of moving particles (as electrons)

Origin of DIFFRACTION

New Latin diffraction-, diffractio, from Latin diffringere to break apart, from dis- + frangere to break — more at break

First Known Use: 1671

Rhymes with DIFFRACTION

abstraction, attraction, bolt-action, class action, compaction, contraction, cross action, detraction, distraction, exaction, extraction, impaction, inaction, infraction, job action, live-action, olfaction, protraction, reaction, redaction, refraction, retraction, stop-action, subtraction, transaction