1. in a manner directed toward or moving toward the center; in the direction of centripetal force
Usage: physics and mathematics term

Examples

• The satellite moves centripetally toward Earth due to gravitational attraction.
• In circular motion, the acceleration acts centripetally, always pointing toward the center.
• The rope pulls the ball centripetally, keeping it in its circular path.
• Planets orbit centripetally around the sun under gravitational force.