centripetally
|cen-tri-pet-al-ly|
C1
/sɛnˈtrɪpɪtəli/
(centripetal)
moving toward a center
Etymology
Etymology Information
'centripetal' originates from New Latin, specifically the word 'centripetus,' where 'centrum' meant 'center' and 'petere' meant 'to seek.'
Historical Evolution
'centripetus' transformed into the English word 'centripetal,' and eventually became the adverb 'centripetally.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'seeking the center,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a manner that moves or is directed towards a center or axis.
The liquid moved centripetally in the spinning container.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/06/27 22:07