What does the term 'fractus clouds' refer to?

The term 'fractus clouds' specifically refers to clouds that are broken into fragments. This descriptor highlights their appearance, as these clouds are often seen as ragged or scattered components rather than a uniform mass. Fractus clouds typically can be found at low altitudes and are often associated with overcast conditions, which may lead to a variety of weather phenomena, but their defining characteristic is the fragmented structure.

This understanding of fractus clouds helps in identifying weather instances where cloud fragmentation occurs, differentiating them from other cloud types that might be thin and wispy or indicate severe weather conditions.