gravitation

UK: ˌɡræv.ɪˈteɪ.ʃən | US: ˌɡræv.əˈteɪ.ʃən

Definition

  1. n. the force of attraction that pulls objects toward each other, especially the force that pulls objects toward the center of the Earth

  2. n. (figurative) a movement or tendency toward something

Structure
grav <heavy (from Latin *gravis*)>itation <noun suffix indicating action or process>
Etymology

The word gravitation originates from the Latin gravis (meaning "heavy"), reflecting the concept of weight or downward force. The suffix -itation transforms the root into a noun denoting the process or phenomenon of being drawn toward a center, as in planetary motion. The term was popularized by Isaac Newton’s law of universal gravitation (1687), which formalized the scientific understanding of this natural force.

Examples

  1. The moon’s orbit is governed by Earth’s gravitation.

  2. Newton’s theory of gravitation revolutionized physics.

  3. There’s a cultural gravitation toward minimalist design these days.

  4. Gravitation weakens with distance between objects.

  5. The artist’s work shows a gravitation toward bold colors.