centering

American  

[sen-ter-ing] / ˈsɛn tər ɪŋ /

noun

1. a temporary framework for supporting a masonry arch during construction until it is able to stand by itself.

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centering British  

/ ˈsɛntərɪŋ /

noun

1. a US spelling of centring

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Etymology

Origin of centering

First recorded in 1760–70; center + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

But Lawrence’s reputation for thoughtfully centering stories about healers and healing in wells of humor began with “Scrubs,” which aired for eight seasons on NBC before moving to ABC for its ninth.

From Salon • Feb. 26, 2026

Rather than centering himself as a victim, he framed the incident as a test of national character, urging Americans to reject political cruelty and recommit to shared democratic values.

From Salon • Feb. 15, 2026

Officials appear to have converged on a near-term halt in rate reductions, with their debate now centering around what conditions justify further rate cuts -- and how quickly these should take place.

From Barron's • Jan. 28, 2026

After reading Louisa May Alcott’s “Little Women,” she explained, she yearned for more “old-fashioned” stories centering girls and women.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 30, 2025

But instead, I force myself to take three deep, centering breaths.

From "The Wrong Way Home" by Kate O’Shaughnessy

Related Words

• absorption
• combination
• consolidation