Definition of "centrifuge" [centrifuge]

• 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. (noun)
• An apparatus in which humans or animals are enclosed and which is revolved to simulate the effects of acceleration in a spacecraft. (noun)
• To rotate (something) in a centrifuge or to separate, dehydrate, or test by means of this apparatus. (verb-transitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "* Caught in this estrogen centrifuge is "Zack" - Dane Cook - pawn of corporate overlords and oppressed caricature of Everyman who toils beneath the yoke of an insufficient hourly wage."
• "One alleged target is Iran's main centrifuge plant, at Natanz, 200 miles south of Teheran."
• "“The centrifuge is the single most dangerous piece of nuclear technology,” Dr. Obeidi said in his book."