center of gravity

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.

center of gravity

/ sĕn′tər /

1. The center of mass of an object in the presence of a uniform gravitational field.

center of gravity

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of center of gravity¹

First recorded in 1650–60

Example Sentences

But it’s also shifted the city’s center of gravity: An estimated quarter of a million people from the Dahiyeh escaped to the city’s downtown and coastal neighborhoods, urban researchers say.

From Los Angeles Times

Like Biden, Harris has generally aimed at what she saw as the center of gravity in the Democratic Party.

From Los Angeles Times

And she just she’s got this gravitas to her, like this low center of gravity, like she's lived a lot of life.

From Salon

The extended leg acts as a lever, further throwing off your center of gravity.

From Salon

In Europe, long a vital source of support for Israel, the political center of gravity is moving away from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.

From New York Times