centripetal
UK: /senˈtrɪp.ɪ.təl/ | US: /senˈtrɪp.ə.t̬əl/
adj. moving or directed toward a center
adj. relating to or acting as a centripetal force
centripetal = centr<center> + i<connecting vowel> + petal<seek>
- centr: From Latin centrum (center), denoting the central point.
- i: A connecting vowel (often from Latin -i-) to ease pronunciation.
- petal: From Latin petere (to seek, move toward), implying directional movement.
Etymology Origin:
Coined in the early 18th century by Sir Isaac Newton, combining Latin centrum (center) and petere (to seek). The term describes forces or motion directed inward, reflecting Newton’s study of circular dynamics. The morphemes logically merge to convey "seeking the center."
The centripetal force keeps the planets in orbit around the sun.
Water spirals down the drain due to centripetal acceleration.
The roller coaster’s design relies on centripetal motion to maintain safety.
Centripetal tendencies in politics aim to unify diverse groups.
The experiment demonstrated how centripetal pull affects rotating objects.