center of mass

noun phrase

: the point in a body or system of bodies at which the whole mass may be considered as concentrated

Examples of center of mass in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On flat ground, if the pendulum’s arm points forward, the shell rolls forward to compensate, and as long as the pendulum keeps the center of mass in front of the center of the ball, RoboBall will keep rolling forward. — IEEE Spectrum, 3 Sep. 2026 In a hallway, on a sidewalk or a gentle downhill, walk briskly for 6 or more feet, then bring yourself to a complete stop over three progressively shorter steps, softening your knees, hinging slightly at your hips and dropping your center of mass. — Dana Santas, CNN Money, 20 Aug. 2026 Firearms training invariably emphasizes aiming at the center of mass in middle of the chest which gives a much better chance of a hit. — David Hambling, Forbes.com, 19 May 2026 Many stars are formed in binary systems, in which two stars orbit one another around a common center of mass. — Keith Cooper, Space.com, 28 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for center of mass

Word History

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of center of mass was in 1862

Rhymes for center of mass

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Browse Nearby Words

center of inversion
center of mass
center-of-mass system
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Cite this Entry

“Center of mass.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/center%20of%20mass. Accessed 6 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

center of mass

: the point in a body or system of bodies at which the whole mass can be thought of as concentrated
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