decentralize
Americanverb (used with object)
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to distribute the administrative powers or functions of (a central authority) over a less concentrated area.
to decentralize the national government.
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to disperse (something) from an area of concentration.
to decentralize the nation's industry.
verb (used without object)
verb
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to reorganize (a government, industry, etc) into smaller more autonomous units
-
to disperse (a concentration, as of industry or population)
Other Word Forms
- decentralist noun
- decentralization noun
Etymology
Origin of decentralize
First recorded in 1850–55; de- + centralize
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
This background has prompted researchers to explore whether the carving of moai followed the same decentralized structure.
From Science Daily
To be sure, America’s decentralized data-agency model limits the ability to manipulate data.
From Barron's
The Vatican has left decisions on this matter to be made on a decentralized basis, and responses have varied.
From Seattle Times
The Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation is the most prominent entity in the decentralized Black Lives Matter movement, which arose a decade ago to protest police violence against Black people.
From Reuters
Earlier this year, the group forced Mr. McCarthy, California Republican, to decentralize the legislative process within the House in exchange for their support of his ascension to the speakership.
From Washington Times
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
