centre
23 synonyms and 0 antonyms for centre, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — UK, Canadian, Australian, and Irish spelling of center — the middle point of something, or a building used for a specific purpose.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Etymology
From Latin centrum, from Greek kentron.
Full origin of centre →Frequently asked questions
What does “centre” mean?
The word “centre” means uK, Canadian, Australian, and Irish spelling of center — the middle point of something, or a building used for a specific purpose. In plain terms, british/Commonwealth spelling of "center".
How do you pronounce “centre”?
“Centre” is pronounced SEHN-tuh (/ˈsɛntəː/ in IPA).
How do you use “centre” in a sentence?
Here is “centre” used in a sentence: “The leisure centre is open until 10pm.”
What part of speech is “centre”?
“Centre” is a noun.
Where does the word “centre” come from?
The word “centre” comes from Latin. From Latin centrum, from Greek kentron.
Is “centre” a common word?
“Centre” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between 'centre' and 'center'?
There is no difference in meaning — only in spelling. 'Centre' is the standard form in British, Canadian, Australian, and Irish English, while 'center' is used in American English. Both refer to the middle of something or a building with a specific purpose. Choose the spelling that matches your regional audience.
Is 'centre' spelled wrong in American English?
Not wrong, just foreign. In the United States, 'center' is the accepted spelling, so 'centre' will often be flagged by American spellcheckers. However, it remains fully correct in the UK and most Commonwealth countries. Consistency matters most: pick one spelling and use it throughout a single document.
What are the two main meanings of 'centre'?
'Centre' has two everyday senses. The first is geometric or physical: the middle point of an object, area, or group, equally distant from the edges. The second is functional: a building or place devoted to a particular activity, such as a shopping centre, health centre, or community centre.