centrist

noun

cen·​trist ˈsen-trist How to pronounce centrist (audio)
Synonyms of centristnext
1
often Centrist : a member of a center party
2
: a person who holds moderate views
centrism noun
centrist adjective

Examples of centrist in a Sentence

The candidate hopes to appeal to centrists nationwide. the centrists will most likely rally behind the candidate who favors reforming the government program—not abolishing it entirely
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sununu supported the more centrist Chuck Morris in the primary, who aligned more with his political views. Ramsey Touchberry, The Washington Examiner, 22 Dec. 2025 In October, the election of centrist Rodrigo Paz ended almost two decades of socialist rule in Bolivia. Reuters 31 Min Ago, CNN Money, 14 Dec. 2025 France and Spain, by contrast, have centrist or center-left governments and favored a harder line and more biting retaliatory tariffs. Matthias Matthijs, Foreign Affairs, 12 Dec. 2025 Most of the Republicans vocalizing their disagreements are retiring, represent competitive districts or are perennial centrists. Sam Gringlas, NPR, 9 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for centrist

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of centrist was in 1872

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Cite this Entry

“Centrist.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/centrist. Accessed 31 Dec. 2025.

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