concentrates; concentrated; concentrating
1
: to think about something : to give your attention to the thing you are doing, reading, etc.
All that noise makes it hard to concentrate.
The student has difficulty concentrating.
—often + onAll that noise makes it hard to concentrate on the book I'm trying to read.
We need to concentrate [=focus] on this problem.
We need to concentrate on finding ways to work more efficiently.
He thought about becoming a lawyer, but he has decided to concentrate on a medical career instead. [=he has decided to direct his efforts toward a medical career instead]
2
: to cause (attention, efforts, strength, etc.) to be used or directed for a single purpose
—usually + on
She is concentrating her attention on her studies. [=she is giving her attention to her studies]
We need to concentrate our efforts on finding ways to work more efficiently.
3
: to make (something, such as a liquid) stronger by removing water
concentrate syrup
The sauce should be simmered for a few minutes to concentrate its flavors.
plural concentrates
: a substance that is made stronger or more pure by removing water
a frozen orange juice concentrate
Is this orange juice fresh or is it made from concentrate?
Cite this Entry
“Concentrate.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/concentrate. Accessed 18 Jun. 2026.
Copy Citation
