centralize
UK: ˈsɛntrəlaɪz | US: ˈsɛntrəˌlaɪz
vt. to concentrate control or power under a single authority
vt. to bring under central management or organization
vi. to become centralized
centralize = central<center> + ize<verb suffix>
- central: Derived from Latin centralis (relating to a center), from centrum (center), which originates from Greek kéntron (sharp point, stationary point of a compass).
- ize: A verb-forming suffix from Greek -izein, indicating "to make" or "to become."
Etymology Origin:
The word centralize emerged in the early 19th century, combining central (pertaining to a core point) with -ize (to render or make). It reflects the societal shift toward consolidating authority or systems into a unified hub, mirroring industrialization and administrative modernization. The logic is straightforward: central anchors the concept of a focal point, while -ize transforms it into an actionable process.
The government plans to centralize healthcare administration under one agency.
Large corporations often centralize decision-making at headquarters.
Critics argue that centralizing power can reduce local autonomy.
The company centralized its IT services to improve efficiency.
Over time, the monarchy sought to centralize control over the provinces.