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[2x]
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metacentre
CIDE DICTIONARY
metacentre, n. [Pref. meta- + center.].
The point of intersection of a vertical line through the center of gravity of the fluid displaced by a floating body which is tipped through a small angle from its position of equilibrium, and the inclined line which was vertical through the center of gravity of the body when in equilibrium. [1913 Webster]
" When the metacenter is above the center of gravity, the position of the body is stable; when below it, unstable." [1913 Webster]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
metacentre, n. (US metacenter) the point of intersection between a line (vertical in equilibrium) through the centre of gravity of a floating body and a vertical line through the centre of pressure after a slight angular displacement, which must be above the centre of gravity to ensure stability.
Derivative
metacentric adj.
Etymology
F m{eacute}tacentre (as META-, CENTRE)
For further exploring for "metacentre" in Webster Dictionary Online
