Lewis & Short

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† centrum, i, n., = κέντρον (a prickle, sharp point).

  1. I. Centrum circini, the stationary foot of the compasses, around which the other is carried in making a circle, Vitr. 3, 1; 9, 5.
    Hence,
  2. II. Meton.
    1. A. The middle point of a circle, the centre, Vitr. 3, 1; 9, 1; Plin. 2, 15, 13, § 63; 2, 19, 17, § 81 et saep.
      In plur.: solis terraeque centra, Plin. 18, 29, 69, § 281 (in Cic. Tusc. 1, 17, 40, used as a Greek word).
    2. B. A kernel, a hard knot in the interior of wood, precious stones, etc., Plin. 16, 39, 76, § 198; 37, 2, 10, § 28; 37, 9, 39, § 120 al.