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fractus

American  
[frak-tuhs] / ˈfræk təs /

adjective

Meteorology.
  1. (of a cloud) containing small, individual elements that have a ragged appearance.


Etymology

Origin of fractus

First recorded in 1965–70; from Latin frāctus, past participle of frangere “to break”; cf. break


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

A cumulus, for example, might just be a cumulus; or it might be a cumulus fractus, if its edges are tattered; or a cumulus pileus, if a smaller cloud appears over it like a hood.

From New York Times ● May 4, 2016

This foreboding scene, pictured by Richard Robotham, depicts a cumulus fractus under the base of well-developed cumulus clouds.

From BBC ● Jul. 30, 2011

I stand pledged for you with Angria; but I flatter myself I know a man when I see one: si fractus illabitur orbis--you have already shown your mettle.

From In Clive's Command A Story of the Fight for India by Herbert Strang

II., that it may then have been styled "Pons fractus?" ¶.S.

From Notes and Queries, Number 43, August 24, 1850 by Various

They literally realize the idea of the poet— "Si fractus illabatur orbis, Impavidum ferient ruinæ."

From Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine, Volume 59, No. 363, January, 1846 by Various

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