de·centralize \(ˈ)dē+\transitive verb Etymology: probably from French décentraliser, from dé- de- (from Old French des-) + centraliser to centralize : to deprive of centralization: as a.: to disperse or distribute the functions or powers of (as a government) < decentralize the administration of flood relief > b.: to cause to withdraw from the center or place of concentration < decentralize downtown business areas — J.C.Ingraham >