centrality

UK: senˈtræləti | US: senˈtræləti

Definition
  1. n. the quality of being central or important

  2. n. (graph theory) a measure of how connected a node is within a network

Structure
central <center>ity <noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "centrality" derives from the Latin centrum (center) via Old French central, combined with the suffix -ity (indicating a state or quality). The root central preserves the core idea of being at the center, while -ity abstracts it into a measurable or conceptual quality. This reflects the word's dual usage in both physical/spatial importance (e.g., "the centrality of the plaza") and abstract significance (e.g., "centrality in a social network").

Examples
  1. The centrality of education in societal development cannot be overstated.

  2. In urban planning, the centrality of a location affects its economic value.

  3. The algorithm calculates the centrality of each node in the graph.

  4. Her role gained centrality as the project progressed.

  5. Historical events often revolve around the centrality of key figures.