noun

diffraction

dih-FRAK-shuhn

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Diffraction (noun) means the bending of a wave as it passes around an obstacle. Example: “Diffraction explains why sound can be heard around a corner.”

noun

technical The bending of a wave as it passes around an obstacle.

"Diffraction explains why sound can be heard around a corner."

"The waves showed noticeable diffraction as they passed the harbor wall."

"Diffraction becomes more obvious when the obstacle is similar in size to the wavelength."

technical In quantum mechanics, the way an electromagnetic wave splits apart on meeting a feature such as a slit, before recombining afterward through interference.

"The physicists studied diffraction as light passed through a narrow slit."

"Electron diffraction patterns are used to examine the structure of crystals."

"Diffraction through the double slit produced a pattern of bright and dark bands."

How to use diffraction

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishDiffraction is what happens when a wave bends around something in its path.

When to use it

It is a technical term used mainly in physics and optics rather than everyday speech.

Memory tip

Picture waves bending round a corner or spreading out after a narrow gap, that bending is diffraction.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

refraction →

Common pairings

light diffraction diffraction pattern diffraction grating wave diffraction

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

_____ explains why sound can be heard around a corner.

Etymology

Diffraction comes from New Latin diffractio, a term coined by the Italian scientist Francesco Maria Grimaldi. It traces back to Latin diffractus, the past participle of diffringo, meaning to shatter or break into pieces. Grimaldi introduced the word in his 1665 work Physico-mathesis de lumine.

Origin: New Latin

Rhymes for diffraction

region ablation allusion emulsion ideation novation diffusion elocution extension oxidation perfusion selection

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Frequently asked questions

What does diffraction mean?

It is the bending of a wave, such as light or sound, as it passes around an obstacle or through a narrow opening.

Who coined the term diffraction?

The Italian scientist Francesco Maria Grimaldi coined the New Latin term, publishing it in his 1665 work Physico-mathesis de lumine.

Is diffraction the same as refraction?

No. The grounding text defines diffraction specifically as a wave bending around an obstacle, which is a distinct phenomenon from refraction.

What is the meaning of diffraction?

"diffraction" (noun) means the bending of a wave as it passes around an obstacle.