Definition of center
1 a
:the point around which a circle or sphere is described;
broadly
:a point that is related to a geometrical figure in such a way that for any point on the figure there is another point on the figure such that a straight line joining the two points is bisected by the original point — called also
center of symmetry
2 a
:a point, area, person, or thing that is most important or pivotal in relation to an indicated activity, interest, or condition
- a railroad center
- the center of the controversy
b
:a source from which something originates
- a propaganda center
c
:a group of neurons having a common function
- respiratory center
d
:a region of concentrated population
- an urban center
e
:a facility providing a place for a particular activity or service
- a day-care center
- a shopping center
- a medical center
3 a
:the middle part (as of the forehead or a stage)
b
often capitalized
(1)
:a grouping of political figures holding moderate views especially between those of conservatives and liberals
(2)
:the views of such politicians
- The party's new policies show a shift toward the center.
(3)
:the adherents of such views
4 a
:a player occupying a middle position on a team: such as
(1)
:the football player in the middle of a line who passes the ball between his legs to a back to start a down
(2)
:the usually tallest player on a basketball team who usually plays near the basket
b
:center field
5 a
:either of two tapered rods which support work in a lathe or grinding machine and about or with which the work revolves
b
:a conical recess in the end of work (such as a shaft) for receiving such a center
