centrifuge
verbEtymology From French centrifuge, from Latin centrum (“center”) + fugiō (“to flee”). Equivalent to centri- + -fuge.
1
To rotate something in a centrifuge, typically in order to separate its constituents.
centrifuge
nounUK /ˈsɛntɹɪˌfjuːdʒ/
Etymology From French centrifuge, from Latin centrum (“center”) + fugiō (“to flee”). Equivalent to centri- + -fuge.
1
A device in which a mixture of denser and lighter materials (normally dispersed in a liquid) is separated by being spun about a central axis at high speed.
2
Figuratively An apparatus in which humans are spun to simulate acceleration in an aircraft or spacecraft.
3
By extension, any device which rotates in order to produce artificial gravity (in the form of centrifugal force)
- Related terms
- centrifugal force, centripetal