Meaning & Definition of word "Centrifugal"
Centrifugal
/ˌsɛn.trɪˈfjuː.ɡəl/
adjective:
- 1. Moving or directed outward from the center or axis.
- Example: The centrifugal force pushes the liquid against the walls of the container in a spinning centrifuge.
- 2. Relating to or denoting a process in which something moves away from a central point.
- Example: In a centrifugal pump, the fluid is propelled outward from the center.
- 3. Characterized by the tendency to disperse or separate from a central point.
- Example: The centrifugal motion of the planets is a fundamental principle in astrophysics.
Etymology
●From Latin 'centrum' meaning 'center' and 'fugere' meaning 'to flee'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
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.
Related Words
centrifuge:
A machine that uses centrifugal force to separate substances of different densities.
centripetal:
Directed toward the center.
Slang Meanings of centrifugal
Meaning: Feeling overwhelmed or out of control.
● Example Sentence: After all that news, my brain felt centrifugal.
Meaning: Describing something that is scattered or disorganized.
● Example Sentence: The meeting was so centrifugal that we couldn't decide on any plan.