gravitate
UK: ˈɡrævɪteɪt | US: ˈɡrævɪteɪt
vi. to move or tend to move toward something under the influence of gravitational force
vi. (figuratively) to be strongly attracted or drawn to something
The word "gravitate" originates from the Latin root gravis (meaning "heavy" or "weighty"), combined with the frequentative verb suffix -itare, which implies repeated or habitual action. The term initially described physical movement due to gravity (Newtonian physics) and later evolved metaphorically to describe attraction or inclination toward something.
Objects in space naturally gravitate toward larger masses due to gravity.
Young professionals often gravitate toward cities with more job opportunities.
The conversation gravitated toward politics as tensions rose.
In the absence of wind, smoke will gravitate upward due to heat.
Her interests gravitate toward art and design rather than science.