n.
Pronunciation: ( ˌ )d ē - ˌ sen-tr ə -l ə - ' z ā -sh ə n
Function: noun
Date: 1846
1 : the dispersion or distribution of functions and powers specifically : the delegation of power from a central authority to regional and local authorities
2 : the redistribution of population and industry from urban centers to outlying areas
– de · cen · tral · ize \ ( ˌ )d ē - ' sen-tr ə - ˌ l ī z \ verb