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 other four teams were set to be part of an arrangement where the NHL would centralize production for those teams’ local telecasts as the regional sports network model has fractured in recent years. — Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 2 Sep. 2026

The buying and marketing teams of Saks and Neiman’s have been centralized, while Bergdorf’s maintains its own team. — David Moin, Footwear News, 1 Sep. 2026

The Ivorian government, which is funding its construction, intends to use the sleek, modern Tour F to centralize government offices currently scattered across the city. — Colette Davidson, Christian Science Monitor, 1 Sep. 2026

Even reforms intended to strengthen accountability are centralized under the president. — Jesse Marks, Foreign Affairs, 31 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1795, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for centralize

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

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