Centering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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centering

[ˈsɛn.tər.ɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

text editing

To position something in the middle or adjust it so that it is equidistant from the edges of a page or screen.

Synonyms

align, balance, even, middle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
centering	Typically used in design or technical contexts where something is being placed in the exact middle of a space. Centering the text on the page made it look more organized. The photographer focused on centering the subject in the frame.
align	Used to describe the positioning of multiple items or aligning text, objects, or structures in a straight line. Also used in contexts where people or organizations are brought into agreement or cooperation. Align the images to the left for a cleaner design. The two companies worked to align their goals for the joint project.
middle	Used to denote the central part of an area, object, or time period. He stood in the middle of the room to get everyone's attention. We will meet in the middle of the week to discuss the project.
balance	Usually used in contexts where equilibrium or even distribution is important, such as work-life balance, balancing objects, or design elements. It's important to balance your workload with time for rest. The artist worked hard to balance the colors in the painting.
even	Refers to making things level or equal, and is often used in contexts related to numbers, surfaces, and distributions. Make sure the table legs are even so it doesn't wobble. The teacher tried to divide the students into even groups.

Examples of usage

Please make sure the text is properly centered on the page.
She centered the image horizontally before saving the document.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

psychology

The process of focusing one's attention and energy on the present moment.

Synonyms

concentration, focus, mindfulness.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
centering	Used when talking about bringing oneself back to a calm and balanced state, often in a meditative or psychological context. She practiced centering exercises before her big presentation. Yoga helps with centering and finding inner peace.
focus	Used generally to denote the act of concentrating on something, often implying clarity and attention to detail. It can be used in various contexts, such as personal goals, tasks, or visual orientation. In order to succeed, you need to focus on your strengths. The camera adjusts its focus automatically.
concentration	Applied when referring to the ability to direct your mental effort on a task or subject. Often used in academic, work, or cognitive performance contexts. His concentration was remarkable during the complex math problems. She lost her concentration when the phone rang.
mindfulness	Refers to the practice of being fully present and engaged in the current moment, often with a sense of awareness and acceptance. Commonly used in wellness, mental health, and stress reduction contexts. Practicing mindfulness has helped reduce her anxiety. Mindfulness meditation can improve overall well-being.

Examples of usage

Meditation can help with centering and reducing stress levels.
Yoga is a practice that promotes centering and mindfulness.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Centering techniques can help reduce anxiety and stress by bringing your attention back to the present moment.
Many mindfulness practices involve centering to encourage deeper breathing and relaxation.
Studies show that centering can enhance concentration and improve overall mental clarity.

Art and Design

In graphic design, centering elements can create a sense of balance and harmony in visual compositions.
Artists often use centering to draw the viewer's eye to the most important part of a painting or sculpture.
Photography also employs centering by placing the main subject in the middle of the frame to create focus.

Education

Teaching methods that incorporate centering can help students focus better and engage more deeply with learning materials.
In cooperative group activities, centering ensures that everyone's opinions are valued and discussed equally.
Centering strategies in classrooms can lead to improved classroom management and foster a positive learning environment.

Cultural Practices

Many meditation and yoga practices emphasize centering as a way to connect with oneself and find inner peace.
In some cultures, centering is a communal activity, bringing groups together to focus on shared goals and values.
Ceremonies and rituals often involve centering techniques to ground participants and enhance spiritual experiences.

Social Interactions

Centering in conversations promotes active listening and encourages balanced participation among speakers.
Practices like centering can help resolve conflicts by creating a calm environment where everyone feels heard.
Social activities that focus on centering allow for deeper connections and understanding among participants.

Origin of 'centering'

The word 'centering' originates from the Old French word 'centrer', which means 'to center'. The concept of centering has been used in various fields such as geometry, design, and psychology to indicate the process of finding a central point or focusing on a specific aspect. The term has evolved to encompass the idea of balance, alignment, and mindfulness in different contexts.

See also: center, centerpiece, central, centrist.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,792, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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15789 religiously
15790 evaporate
15791 intruder
15792 centering
15793 evaluative
15794 deacon
15795 skinny
...