centralize

verb

cen·​tral·​ize ˈsen-trə-ˌlīz How to pronounce centralize (audio)
centralized; centralizing

intransitive verb

: to form a center : cluster around a center

transitive verb

1
: to bring to a center : consolidate
centralize all the data in one file
2
: to concentrate by placing power and authority in a center or central organization
centralized several functions in a single agency
centralization noun
centralizer noun

Examples of centralize in a Sentence

All shipping operations have been centralized at the Miami office. The controversial reforms could be used to further centralize power in the hands of one party.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
In units where reliability is the most important, for example, consider keeping power centralized. Stephanie Dillon, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025 Experimental special economic zones in southern China, large industrial parks where logistics and supply chains became centralized, were key to the transition into a relatively freer market. Nick Mordowanec mandy Taheri john Feng, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 May 2025 This includes advancements in data journalism, community journalism, technology and centralizing editorial decisions to help teams move faster. Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 19 May 2025 City officials cast it as a valuable effort that centralized legal services for migrants and leaned on the expertise of law firms, universities and nonprofits. Luis Ferré-Sadurní, New York Times, 16 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for centralize

Word History

First Known Use

1795, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of centralize was in 1795

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Centralize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/centralize. Accessed 28 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

centralize

verb
cen·​tral·​ize ˈsen-trə-ˌlīz How to pronounce centralize (audio)
centralized; centralizing
: to bring to a central point or under a single control
centralization noun

More from Merriam-Webster on centralize

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