# diffraction

/dɪˈfɹækʃən/ (US) · /dɪfɹˈækʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/diffraction
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. bending of waves

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

the way waves of light, sound, or water bend around an object or spread out after passing through a small opening.

For teachers: the bending of a wave around the corners of an obstacle or through an aperture into the region of geometrical shadow of the obstacle.

- The diffraction of light through the tiny holes in the curtain created a beautiful pattern on the wall.
- The experiment demonstrated the wave-like nature of electrons by observing their diffraction as they passed through a thin crystal lattice.

Usage: Uncountable when referring to the physical phenomenon; countable when referring to specific instances or patterns.

### 2. interference patterns

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

the patterns created when light waves break apart and join back together after hitting a surface.

For teachers: the modification which light undergoes in passing by the edges of opaque bodies or through narrow slits, resulting in a series of light and dark bands.

- Scientists used X-ray diffraction to look at the structure of the DNA molecule.
- By analyzing the resulting diffraction pattern, the researchers were able to determine the precise atomic arrangement of the new alloy.

Usage: Often used in the context of 'diffraction pattern' or 'X-ray diffraction'.

## Examples

- Diffraction causes the light to spread out as it passes through the slit.
- The scientist observed the diffraction of light through a crystal to determine its internal atomic structure.
- When light waves encounter an obstacle comparable in size to their wavelength, diffraction occurs, resulting in the characteristic bending and interference patterns observed in optical experiments.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.