Dictionary
centripetal force
noun
physics : a force that pulls an object moving in a circular path toward the center of its path
Full Definition of CENTRIPETAL FORCE
: the force that is necessary to keep an object moving in a curved path and that is directed inward toward the center of rotation <a string on the end of which a stone is whirled about exerts centripetal force on the stone> — compare centrifugal force
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First Known Use of CENTRIPETAL FORCE
1686
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