variants
also British decentralise
decentralizes; decentralized; decentralizing
: to change (something) by taking control, power, etc., from one person or group and giving it to many people or groups throughout an area
The plan is to decentralize the school system and give each district control over its own policies.
a highly decentralized organization [=an organization in which many people have power]
The organization has decided to decentralize.
Cite this Entry
“Decentralize.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/decentralize. Accessed 18 Jun. 2026.
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