Centrifugal

/ˌsɛn.trɪˈfjuː.ɡəl/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Moving or directed outward from the center or axis.

The centrifugal force pushes the liquid against the walls of the container in a spinning centrifuge.

Relating to or denoting a process in which something moves away from a central point.

In a centrifugal pump, the fluid is propelled outward from the center.

Characterized by the tendency to disperse or separate from a central point.

The centrifugal motion of the planets is a fundamental principle in astrophysics.

From Latin 'centrum' meaning 'center' and 'fugere' meaning 'to flee'.

centrifugal force

The apparent force that draws a rotating body away from the center.

centrifugal accelerator

A device that increases the speed of a substance moving outward from a central point.

centrifuge

A machine that uses centrifugal force to separate substances of different densities.

centripetal

Directed toward the center.

Feeling overwhelmed or out of control.

After all that news, my brain felt centrifugal.

Describing something that is scattered or disorganized.

The meeting was so centrifugal that we couldn't decide on any plan.