center of gravity

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

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

center of gravity

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of center of gravity¹

First recorded in 1650–60

Example Sentences

The different ways you can move in a wheelchair — with the ability to roll, spin and keep a lower center of gravity — create opportunities for innovative choreography that would otherwise be impossible.

From Los Angeles Times

Despite their early contributions, notably the achievement of the first self-sustained nuclear chain reaction in December 1942, the project’s center of gravity had shifted to Los Alamos.

From Salon

The relocation of both corporate operations and the CEO signals a fundamental change in the company’s center of gravity.

From Los Angeles Times

Throughout his career, McConnell had stayed close to the GOP’s ideological center of gravity, which included a rightward march in the 1980s.

From Salon

Every time I do, we make a new center of gravity for the course together.

From Los Angeles Times