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.

---

center of gravity Scientific  

/ sĕn′tər /

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

---

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.

---

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

Cohesion is often referred to as the strategic center of gravity for NATO—its ability to act as one despite being made up of 32 countries.

From The Wall Street Journal

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

From Barron's

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

The unique combination of instantaneous torque, lightweight powertrain and low center of gravity—due to the placement of those heavy batteries—means these vehicles have the potential to be something akin to street-legal Indy cars.

From The Wall Street Journal

A small child can figure out how to pick up an object, regardless of its shape, size or center of gravity.

From The Wall Street Journal