tangential motion

American  

[tan-jen-shuhl moh-shuhn] / tænˈdʒɛn ʃəl ˈmoʊ ʃən /

noun

Astronomy.

1. the component of the linear motion of a star with respect to the sun, measured along a line perpendicular to its line of sight and expressed in miles or kilometers per second.

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Etymology

Origin of tangential motion

First recorded in 1760–70

Example Sentences

Solely by reason of its forward tangential motion.

From Scientific American Supplement, No. 531, March 6, 1886 by Various

This experiment shows that no cyclone can form without some tangential motion in the air entering the area of low-pressure.

From Meteorology or Weather Explained by M'Pherson, J. G.