Plain English Meaning
When something moves in a circle, it feels like it's being pushed outward. That outward feeling is centrifugal force. It's really just the object trying to keep going in a straight line while something else pulls it around the curve.
Full Definition
The apparent outward force felt by an object moving along a curved path. It is not a true force but the perceived effect of the object's inertia resisting the change in direction caused by centripetal force pulling it toward the center of the curve.
Context Anchor
Encountered when learning level turns, especially when discussing the forces acting on the airplane in a bank.
Derivation
From Latin 'centrum' (center) and 'fugere' (to flee). Literally 'center-fleeing.' The name describes exactly what it feels like — something pulling away from the center of a turn.
Why Pilots Care
In a turn, centrifugal force adds to the load the wings must support. The steeper the bank, the greater this effect, which is why increase and .