center of gravity

American  

noun

1. Mechanics. the point through which the resultant of gravitational forces on a body passes and from which the resultant force of attraction of the body on other bodies emanates: coincident with the center of mass in a uniform gravitational field.

2. a person, thing, or idea that is the vital or pivotal focus of interest or activity within a larger entity.

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center of gravity Scientific  

/ sĕn′tər /

1. The center of mass of an object in the presence of a uniform gravitational field.

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center of gravity Cultural  

1. The point in any solid where a single applied force could support it; the point where the mass of the object is equally balanced. The center of gravity is also called the center of mass. When a man on a ladder leans sideways so far that his center of gravity is no longer over his feet, he begins to fall.

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Etymology

Origin of center of gravity

First recorded in 1650–60

Compare meaning

How does center-of-gravity compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• center of mass vs. center of gravity

Example Sentences

Fortunately, Adeli’s Mr. Zero establishes the necessary center of gravity.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 18, 2026

Twenty pounds doesn’t sound like a lot, but I was only 170, which meant I had an extra 10% of body weight resting above my center of gravity.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 1, 2026

But the center of gravity in the Senate remains resistant to change.

From Barron's • Jan. 16, 2026

The company’s name is synonymous with the Kennedy Center and it has served as an artistic center of gravity for the complex since the building first opened.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 9, 2026

My skeleton was a male’s, with its higher center of gravity.

From "Middlesex: A Novel" by Jeffrey Eugenides