Definition of centrifuge

Email this page to a friend

< centrifugal force

centriole >

cen·tri·fuge    (sntr-fyj) KEY 

NOUN:

1. An apparatus consisting essentially of a compartment spun about a central axis to separate contained materials of different specific gravities, or to separate colloidal particles suspended in a liquid.
2. An apparatus in which humans or animals are enclosed and which is revolved to simulate the effects of acceleration in a spacecraft.

TRANSITIVE VERB:
cen·tri·fuged, cen·tri·fug·ing, cen·tri·fug·es

To rotate (something) in a centrifuge or to separate, dehydrate, or test by means of this apparatus.

---

ETYMOLOGY:
French, centrifugal, from New Latin centrifugus ; see centrifugal

OTHER FORMS:
cen·trifu·gation  (sn-trfy-gshn, -trf-) KEY (Noun)