centre
|cen-tre|
🇺🇸
/ˈsɛn.tɚ/
🇬🇧
/ˈsɛn.tə/
middle; focal point
Etymology
'centre' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'kentron', where 'kentr-' meant 'goad, sharp point'.
'centre' changed from Latin 'centrum' (from Greek 'kentron') into Old French 'centre' and then into Middle English as 'centre', eventually becoming the modern English 'centre'.
Initially, it meant 'a sharp point or goad', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'the middle point or focal point'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the point that is the equal distance from the sides or surfaces of something; the middle point (geometric centre).
The centre of the circle is at (0, 0).
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Noun 2
a place or building used for a particular activity (e.g., shopping centre, sports centre).
They met at the sports centre after school.
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Noun 3
a place or person that is a focal point of activity, interest, or influence (e.g., the centre of attention).
She became the centre of attention at the party.
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Noun 4
a playing position in some team sports (e.g., the centre in basketball or rugby).
He's the starting centre for the team this season.
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Verb 1
to place something in the middle or at the central point of something else; to position centrally.
Please centre the photograph on the page.
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Verb 2
to give primary importance or focus to something; to concentrate attention or activity on.
The campaign was centred on local issues.
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Last updated: 2025/12/03 01:37