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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But many voters in this heartland state remain pragmatic centrists, reflecting their Midwestern sensibilities. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 14 Aug. 2025 Rather than a right/left divide on the role of government, the main debate going forward will be between centrists and populists. Allison Schrager, Twin Cities, 9 July 2025 Each also represents an ideological pole in the 11-candidate field, with Cuomo − a centrist who appointed many Republicans to his gubernatorial administration − on its right, and Democratic Socialists of America-member Mamdani on its left. Nicole Fallert, USA Today, 25 June 2025 Graham is a longtime senator who, while previously known as more of a centrist—and Trump critic—has become a staunch Trump advocate, and has already won the president’s endorsement in his 2026 reelection bid. Alison Durkee, Forbes.com, 28 July 2025 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 22 Aug. 2025.

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