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.
On mobile devices, Face ID and Fingerprint ID are done not by centralizing all of that data in one spot at Apple or Google, but by storing the data in a secure module on each mobile device. Cheryl Winokur Munk, CNBC, 12 Apr. 2025 Information is centralized on the Atlassian platform to enable users to see where goal progress is doing well, or is off track and updates happen in real-time across Atlassian products. Adrian Bridgwater, Forbes.com, 9 Apr. 2025 These include suspending certain taxes, centralizing revenue collection and reallocating funds from existing state programs. Antonio Maria Delgado, Miami Herald, 9 Apr. 2025 The platform even centralizes essential tasks like payroll processing, invoicing, appointment scheduling, and project management. New Atlas, 9 Apr. 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 17 Apr. 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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