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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.

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 Strang, Herbert

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