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 of centralize

• 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

State emergency officials have launched an online Wildfire Relief Information page to centralize updates on assistance and resources for those affected. —Cheyenne Derksen, Oklahoman, 21 Feb. 2026

Academic instructional coaches serve as teachers for teachers, but their jobs in Louisville are being cut and centralized as JCPS addresses its budget deficit. —Ray Padilla, Louisville Courier Journal, 20 Feb. 2026

The change will help keep government services centralized, Engleman said. —Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 17 Feb. 2026

The market was built in 1940 to centralize local merchants, and that original purpose still holds. —Lauren Schuster, Kansas City Star, 17 Feb. 2026

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