centralize

verb

cen·​tral·​ize ˈsen-trə-ˌlīz How to pronounce centralize (audio)
centralized; centralizing
Synonyms of centralizenext

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 noun
centralizer noun

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Rural hospital leaders should centralize essential infrastructure while maintaining local governance. David Chou, Forbes.com, 22 Jan. 2026 The judge warned that centralizing voter data would chill voter registration and cause Americans to fear misuse of their personal information. Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 16 Jan. 2026 The state’s enduring educational problems will not be fixed by rearranging the bureaucratic deck chairs and centralizing authority or even by boosting funding, but by decentralizing decision-making and placing more of it in the hands of parents. The Editorial Board, Oc Register, 13 Jan. 2026 Oversight has effectively been centralized in the mayor’s office — an office already responsible for the entire city, every agency, and every crisis. Ed Gaskin, Boston Herald, 12 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for centralize

Word History

First Known Use

1795, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of centralize was in 1795

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Cite this Entry

“Centralize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/centralize. Accessed 25 Jan. 2026.

Kids Definition

centralize

verb
cen·​tral·​ize ˈsen-trə-ˌlīz How to pronounce centralize (audio)
centralized; centralizing
: to bring to a central point or under a single control
centralization noun

More from Merriam-Webster on centralize

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