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

“The U.S. is very much the center of gravity for Unilever,” said Herrish Patel, president of Unilever USA.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

For a few days each April, the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival becomes a kind of center of gravity for the music industry and its surrounding ecosystems.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 26, 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

“It will be a struggle over who holds the center of gravity inside the organization, and that result is not preordained.”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

Thanks to the low center of gravity, Kendra found that leaning was enough to prevent the boat from capsizing, but the naiads were relentless.

From "Fablehaven" by Brandon Mull