Gyration \Gy*ra"tion\ (j[-i]*r[=a]"sh[u^]n), n.

1. The act of turning or whirling, as around a fixed center; a circular or spiral motion; motion about an axis; rotation; revolution. [1913 Webster]

The gyrations of an ascending balloon. --De Quincey. [1913 Webster]

If a burning coal be nimbly moved round in a circle, with gyrations continually repeated, the whole circle will appear like fire. --Sir I. Newton. [1913 Webster]

2. (Zool.) One of the whorls of a spiral univalve shell. [1913 Webster]

Center of gyration. (Mech.) See under Center.

Radius of gyration, the distance between the axis of a rotating body and its center of gyration. --Rankine. [1913 Webster]

Source: The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
 

Gyration \Gy*ra"tion\, n.

1. The act of turning or whirling, as around a fixed center; a circular or spiral motion; motion about an axis; rotation; revolution.

The gyrations of an ascending balloon. --De Quincey.

If a burning coal be nimbly moved round in a circle, with gyrations continually repeated, the whole circle will appear like fire. --Sir I. Newton.

2. (Zo["o]l.) One of the whorls of a spiral univalve shell.

Center of gyration. (Mech.) See under Center.

Radius of gyration the distance between the axis of a rotating body and its center of gyration. --Rankine.

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)