Definitions for decentralization

This page provides all possible meanings and translations of the word decentralization

Random House Webster's College Dictionary

de•cen•tral•izediˈsɛn trəˌlaɪz(v.)-ized, -iz•ing.

  1. (v.t.)to distribute the administrative powers or functions of (a central authority) throughout regional divisions, etc.

  2. to disperse (something) from an area of concentration.

  3. (v.i.)to undergo or achieve decentralization.

    Category: Common Vocabulary

Origin of decentralize:



Princeton's WordNet

  1. decentralization, decentalisation(noun)

    the social process in which population and industry moves from urban centers to outlying districts

  2. decentralization, decentralisation(noun)

    the spread of power away from the center to local branches or governments


  1. decentralization(Noun)

    The action of decentralizing, or the state of being decentralized.

Webster Dictionary

  1. Decentralization(noun)

    the action of decentralizing, or the state of being decentralized


  1. Decentralization

    Decentralization is the process of redistributing or dispersing functions, powers, people or things away from a central location or authority. While decentralization, especially in the governmental sphere, is widely studied and practiced, there is no common definition or understanding of decentralization. The meaning of decentralization may vary in part because of the different ways it is applied. Concepts of decentralization have been applied to group dynamics and management science in private businesses and organizations, political science, law and public administration, economics and technology.


Find a translation for the decentralization definition in other languages:

Select another language:

Discuss these decentralization definitions with the community:


Use the citation below to add this definition to your bibliography:


"decentralization." STANDS4 LLC, 2014. Web. 30 Jul 2014. <>.

Are we missing a good definition for decentralization?

The Web's Largest Resource for

Definitions & Translations

A Member Of The STANDS4 Network

Nearby & related entries:

Alternative searches for decentralization: