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.
Why Local Talent Strategies Are Emerging Now For decades, talent sourcing has been centralized, credential-focused, and geographically agnostic. Scott Hutcheson, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025 Many of the cases against Abbott have been centralized in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, and one of those is set to go to trial in May in federal court in Chicago. Lisa Schencker, Chicago Tribune, 14 Mar. 2025 And within Washington, power has increasingly centralized in the president at the expense of Congress and the judiciary. Ryan Young, Twin Cities, 27 Feb. 2025 All the software from these firms is centralized and integrated into Germanedge’s Edge. Sarah Jones, Sourcing Journal, 10 Mar. 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 30 Mar. 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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