centralize

verb

cen·​tral·​ize ˈsen-trə-ˌlīz 

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

ˌsen-trə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

centralizer

ˈsen-trə-ˌlī-zər 

noun

Synonyms

• center
• compact
• concenter
• concentrate
• consolidate
• polarize
• unify
• unite

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

These anxieties have led to calls to centralize the rules, processes, and even the administration of elections. —Jenna Bednar, Foreign Affairs, 5 Nov. 2024

Facilities sourcing and construction contracting were centralized in the procurement department. —Steve Banker, Forbes, 2 Nov. 2024

For some stores, data entry and phone calls have been centralized elsewhere so pharmacists can spend more time engaging with patients. —Nina Turner, Newsweek, 29 Oct. 2024

But while that East Coast gathering unfurls across two weeks — centralized at Lincoln Center before sprawling to other theaters — AFI Fest is a much more compressed affair. —J. Kim Murphy, Variety, 23 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1795, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Kids Definition

centralize

verb

cen·​tral·​ize ˈsen-trə-ˌlīz 

centralized; centralizing

: to bring to a central point or under a single control

centralization

ˌsen-trə-lə-ˈzā-shən 

noun