a. [ L. centrum center + petere to move toward. ] 1. Tending, or causing, to approach the center. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. (Bot.) (a) Expanding first at the base of the inflorescence, and proceeding in order towards the summit. (b) Having the radicle turned toward the axis of the fruit, as some embryos. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. Progressing by changes from the exterior of a thing toward its center; as, the centripetal calcification of a bone. R. Owen. [ 1913 Webster ]

Centripetal force (Mech.), a force whose direction is towards a center, as in case of a planet revolving round the sun, the center of the system, See Centrifugal force, under Centrifugal. --
Centripetal impression (Physiol.), an impression (sensory) transmitted by an afferent nerve from the exterior of the body inwards, to the central organ. [ 1913 Webster ]