gravity

UK: ˈɡræv.ɪ.ti | US: ˈɡræv.ə.ti

Definition

  1. n. the force that attracts a body toward the center of the earth or any other physical body having mass

  2. n. extreme importance or seriousness

  3. n. solemnity or dignity of manner

Structure
grav <heavy, weighty (from Latin *gravis*) + ity<noun suffix indicating state or quality>
Etymology

The word "gravity" traces back to the Latin gravis, meaning "heavy" or "weighty." The suffix -ity (from Latin -itas) transforms the adjective into a noun denoting a state or quality. Originally used in physics to describe the force of attraction between masses, its figurative sense ("seriousness") emerged in the 16th century, metaphorically linking physical weight to emotional or intellectual weight.

Examples

  1. The gravity of Earth keeps us grounded.

  2. She spoke with gravity about the climate crisis.

  3. The judge’s gravity commanded respect in the courtroom.

  4. Understanding the gravity of the situation, he acted swiftly.

  5. Newton’s law of universal gravity revolutionized physics.