CENTRIST Synonyms: 47 Similar and Opposite Words

centrist 1 of 2

adjective

Definition of centrist

as in moderate

avoiding major social change or extreme political ideas several centrist candidates were elected, apparently in a reaction against the extremists

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centrist

2 of 2

noun

ˈsen-trist

as in middle-of-the-roader

a person who holds moderate views the centrists will most likely rally behind the candidate who favors reforming the government program—not abolishing it entirely

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of centrist

Adjective

There's a debate in the Democratic Party about whether recent wins by democratic socialist candidates will spell trouble with more centrist voters come November. — Ashley Lopez, NPR, 13 Aug. 2026 Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley, a centrist Democrat, narrowly won the Democratic primary in Wisconsin in a major upset in the race for governor, the Associated Press projects. — Hannah Demissie, ABC News, 12 Aug. 2026

Noun

NPAs are hungry to elect centrists who believe that compromise is not a dirty word. — Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 12 Aug. 2026 Evers’ example is one other centrist Democrats should emulate as this internal debate continues to play out. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 12 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for centrist

Recent Examples of Synonyms for centrist

Adjective

The method helps drinkers moderate consumption while still enjoying social occasions that typically revolve around alcohol.

— Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 24 Aug. 2026
The results do not mean that sprint workouts and other forms of high-intensity interval training, or HIIT, are better than moderate exercise where your heart rate remains at a steady level.

— Will Stone, NPR, 24 Aug. 2026

Definition of moderate

Adjective

That sentiment illustrates a central tension raised by many of the actors who shared their stories with CNN.

— Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 22 Aug. 2026
Bonta, who's leading the group of 12 states challenging the merger, also said Paramount appears focused on discussing issues that aren't central to their antitrust lawsuit.

— Alex Harring, CNBC, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of central

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centrals

centrist

centrists

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“Centrist.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/centrist. Accessed 26 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of centrist

adjective

noun

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