Coriolis effect

noun

Co·​ri·​o·​lis effect ˌkȯr-ē-ˈō-ləs- How to pronounce Coriolis effect (audio)
: the apparent deflection of a moving object that is the result of the Coriolis force

Examples of Coriolis effect in a Sentence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Due to the Coriolis effect caused by the planet's rotation, this circulation generates a powerful eastward-flowing jet stream. — Victoria Corless, Space.com, 20 Mar. 2025 In a toilet, the water volume and distance are too small to be subject to the Coriolis effect—a relief for anyone flushing the toilet at the equator. — Bethany Brookshire, Scientific American, 31 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1946, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Coriolis effect was circa 1946

Rhymes for Coriolis effect

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Browse Nearby Words

Coriolis acceleration
Coriolis effect
Coriolis force
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Cite this Entry

“Coriolis effect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Coriolis%20effect. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

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Kids Definition

Coriolis effect

noun
Co·​ri·​o·​lis effect ˌkōr-ē-ˌō-ləs- How to pronounce Coriolis effect (audio)
ˌkȯr-
: the deflection of a moving object that is a result of the Coriolis force

More from Merriam-Webster on Coriolis effect

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about Coriolis effect

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