centrist

noun

cen·​trist ˈsen-trist How to pronounce centrist (audio)
1
often capitalized : a member of a center party
2
: a person who holds moderate views
centrism noun
centrist adjective

Examples of centrist in a Sentence

The candidate hopes to appeal to centrists nationwide. the centrists will most likely rally behind the candidate who favors reforming the government program—not abolishing it entirely
Recent Examples on the Web
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The speaker had faced immense pressure from some on his right flank, which is typical for contentious bills, but also centrists — who typically back leadership on spending and governing issues. Rachel Schilke, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 26 Feb. 2025 Starmer, a centrist, will be in Washington on Thursday, following Monday's White House visit by French President Emmanuel Macron. Fatima Al-Kassab, NPR, 26 Feb. 2025 Image Image Rising to national prominence in the Senate, Mr. Boren became a centrist, allying himself on many issues with President Jimmy Carter, a Democrat, and Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush, both Republicans. Robert D. McFadden, New York Times, 20 Feb. 2025 Barnier, who has only been in power since September as the leader of a minority government backed by centrists and conservatives, attempted to pass part of the budget using a controversial constitutional mechanism that bypassed a vote in the legislature. Lauren Kent, CNN, 4 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for centrist

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of centrist was in 1872

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Cite this Entry

“Centrist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/centrist. Accessed 16 Mar. 2025.

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