The root word ‘fract’ comes from the Latin word ‘frangere,’ which means ‘to break.’ This root is used in various words in the English language, often carrying the meaning of breaking or being broken. For example, the word ‘fraction’ refers to a part of a whole that has been broken down into smaller pieces, while ‘fracture’ means a break in a bone or other material.
Understanding the root ‘fract’ can help you decipher the meanings of other related words. When you encounter words like ‘infraction’ (a violation or breaking of a rule) or ‘refractory’ (stubborn or unmanageable, as in something that does not easily break), you can see how the idea of breaking is central to their meanings. Thus, knowing this root expands your vocabulary and enhances your grasp of language.