Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
diffract
verb
/dɪˈfrækt/
Definition
To cause a wave to spread out as it passes through a narrow opening or around an obstacle.
Examples
- The light from the laser diffracted when it passed through the small slit.
- When sound waves diffract, they can be heard around corners.
Meaning
Diffraction refers to the bending and spreading of waves, often light or sound, as they encounter an obstacle or slit that is comparable in size to their wavelength.
Synonyms
- bend
- scatter
- diverge
