refractor
Americannoun
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an object or material that refracts
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another name for refracting telescope
Etymology
Origin of refractor
Explanation
A refractor is a kind of lens that bends light to form a focused image. A telescope that uses this type of lens to bring distant objects into view is also known as a refractor. The word refractor comes from refract, "to break or bend the natural course." In the case of a telescope, it's light that's being refracted, or bent, as it passes through a lens. A second lens magnifies the image, making it possible to see distant stars and planets. Today, most large telescopes used by astronomers to see very distant objects are reflecting telescopes that use mirrors rather than refractors.
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.
I also “invest” in collecting rookie/prospect refractor cards.
From Slate ● Apr. 12, 2022
In 1655 Dutch astronomer Christiaan Huygens set up a refractor telescope of his own construction and aimed it at Saturn.
From Scientific American ● Mar. 31, 2021
According to Beckett, the Trout red refractor is the second rarest version of the Angels’ superstar’s card.
From Fox News ● May 21, 2020
One problem with a refracting telescope is that the light must pass through the lens of a refractor.
From Textbooks ● Oct. 13, 2016
“Of course; that is a refractor, and this is going to be a reflector.”
From The Vast Abyss The Story of Tom Blount, his Uncles and his Cousin Sam by George Manville Fenn
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