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

The move comes nearly three months after Disney unveiled a more streamlined management structure that sought to centralize its sprawling marketing operations. —Meg James, Los Angeles Times, 9 Apr. 2026

This partnership is designed to centralize compliance data and replace fragmented, manual processes with a unified digital framework. —Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 9 Apr. 2026

Tigani has centralized food preparation in an off-site kitchen and contracted with a bakery to more efficiently meet demand at the three stores. —Charlotte Observer, 7 Apr. 2026

Logs and reports should be centralized, and the same investigators engaged, to identify patterns. —Keegan A. Berry, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Apr. 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