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noun. bi· re· frin· gence ˌbī-ri-ˈfrin-jən (t)s. plural birefringences. 1. : the refraction of light in an anisotropic material (such as calcite) in two slightly different directions to form two rays. According to G. Blom of Philips, video disc acrylics must be optically clear and free of striations and birefringence.
relating to or characterized by double refraction.
Define birefringent. birefringent synonyms, birefringent pronunciation, birefringent translation, English dictionary definition of birefringent. n. The resolution or splitting of a light wave into two unequally reflected or transmitted waves by an optically anisotropic medium such as calcite or...
For example, ordinary cellophane is birefringent. Polarizers are routinely used to detect stress, either applied or frozen-in, in plastics such as polystyrene and polycarbonate. Cotton fiber is birefringent because of high levels of cellulosic material in the fibre's secondary cell wall which is directionally aligned with the cotton fibers.
Synonyms. Some synonyms of birefringent include double refraction, anisotropic, dichroic, and polarizing. Antonyms. There are no direct antonyms for birefringent, as it is a specific property of certain materials. The same root words. The root words of birefringent are “bi” meaning two and “refringere” meaning to break.
There is one meaning in OED's entry for the adjective birefringent. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definition, usage, and quotation evidence.
Summary Definitions Synonyms Pronunciation Collocations Conjugations Sentences Grammar. Definition of 'birefringent' birefringent in British English. adjective. (of a material) having the property of double refraction. The word birefringent is derived from birefringence, shown below. Collins English Dictionary. Copyright © HarperCollins Publishers.
