center
center Lexical Profile
center Game Scores & Validity
• noun
American The middle point or part of something, equidistant from its edges, ends, or surface.
"She placed a large vase of fresh lilies in the center of the dining table."
American A building, complex, or place dedicated to a specified activity, service, or commercial purpose.
"The neighborhood community center offers free art classes for local children on weekends."
American The principal point of concentration, interest, or activity.
"For centuries, the port city served as a major center of international trade."
American A player who occupies a middle position on the field, court, or ice in various team sports such as basketball, American football, or hockey.
"The basketball team's starting center is over seven feet tall and dominates the area near the basket."
• verb
American To have something as a major subject of interest, concern, or focus.
"The novel centers on a young scientist's journey across the Arctic."
American To place or position something in the middle of an area or space.
"Make sure to center the title at the top of the document before printing."
• adjective
American Located in or relating to the middle of something.
"Please walk down the center aisle to find your seats."
Word Nuance & Usage
Spelled "center" in American English and "centre" in British, Canadian, and Australian English.
• Rhymes for center
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old French 'centre', from Latin 'centrum', ultimately from Ancient Greek 'kentron' meaning 'sharp point' or 'stationary leg of a pair of compasses'.