centralize

verb

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

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
ˌsen-trə-lə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce centralize (audio)
noun
centralizer
ˈsen-trə-ˌlī-zər How to pronounce centralize (audio)
noun

Synonyms of centralize

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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.
The versatile dock eliminates the clutter from the wall outlet and keeps everything centralized. — Carlos Mejia, PC Magazine, 26 June 2026 This would centralize transfers, bring more rental income for the city and reduce congestion impacts on the surrounding neighborhood. — Lena Guerrero Reynolds, Chicago Tribune, 25 June 2026 Then Ferrari’s team reboots the underlying technology—centralizing server costs, cleaning up sprawling codebases—while slashing costs. — Chris Dobstaff, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 Arghandiwal, an Oakland native born to Afghan immigrant parents, launched the Oakland Roots to centralize the community aspect of sports, especially in a city that lost its pro teams to the greed of major sports. — Marcus Thompson Ii, New York Times, 30 June 2026 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

Rhymes for centralize

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Browse Nearby Words

centralization
centralize
centralizer
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Cite this Entry

“Centralize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/centralize. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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
ˌsen-trə-lə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce centralize (audio)
noun

More from Merriam-Webster on centralize

Nglish: Translation of centralize for Spanish Speakers

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