Langimage
English

gravity

|grav/i/ty|

B2

/ˈɡrævɪti/

attraction force

Etymology
Etymology Information

'gravity' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'gravitas,' where 'gravis' meant 'heavy or serious.'

Historical Evolution

'gravitas' transformed into the Old French word 'gravité,' and eventually became the modern English word 'gravity' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'heaviness or seriousness,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'the force of attraction between masses.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the force that attracts a body toward the center of the earth, or toward any other physical body having mass.

The apple fell to the ground due to gravity.

Synonyms

Noun 2

seriousness or importance, especially as a consequence of an action or situation.

The gravity of the situation was not lost on anyone.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35