n.
Pronunciation: ˌ b ī -ri- ' frin-j ə n(t)s
Function: noun
Etymology: International Scientific Vocabulary 1 bi- + refringent refracting, from Latin refringent-, refringens, present participle of refringere to break up ― more at REFRACT
Date: 1898
: the refraction of light in an anisotropic material (as calcite) in two slightly different directions to form two rays
– bi · re · frin · gent \ -j ə nt \ adjective