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

• consolidate
• concentrate
• integrate

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

In Reagan’s eyes, this approach centralized power in the White House and was a way to eliminate burdensome regulations before the agencies announced them to the public. —Barbara Kates-Garnick, The Conversation, 26 Aug. 2025

The firm’s software to centralize workflow processes doesn’t face obsolescence, but investors fear AI could sap growth. —Bloomberg, Mercury News, 25 Aug. 2025

The permitting process is now centralized in Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s office. —Spencer Kimball, CNBC, 20 Aug. 2025

The changes would also cut costs, saving on animatronics maintenance and centralizing entertainment offerings. —Katherine Laidlaw, HubSpot, 8 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1795, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for centralize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• agonize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize

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