| the force, acting upon a body moving along a curved path, that is directed toward the center of curvature of the path and constrains the body to the path. |
centripetal force  (click for larger image in new window) n. The component of force acting on a body in curvilinear motion that is directed toward the center of curvature or axis of rotation. Centripetal force is necessary for an object to move with circular motion. |