1 [+ obj] : to place (something) in the middle of something
▪ Center the picture on the wall. — often used as (be) centered ▪ The sign isn't centered. Move it a little to the left. ▪ The pain is centered around/in his lower back. 2 a [no obj] : to be mainly concerned about or involved with someone or something — usually + around, round, on, or upon ▪ Her life centers on/around her children. [=her children are the most important part of her life] ▪ The story centers on/upon a teenage girl. ▪ The investigation has centered [=focused] mainly on/upon the alleged misuse of public funds.
b [+ obj] : to cause (something) to be mainly concerned about or involved with something — usually + around, round, on, or upon, ▪ She centers her life on/around her children. = Her life is centered on/around her children. ▪ You should center your attention on the most important problems. ▪ The group is centering its efforts on getting food to the poor. 3 [+ obj] : to have the main or most important part of (something, such as an organization or activity) in or at a specified place — usually used as (be) centered ▪ an industry that is centered in the country's north ▪ The organization has members worldwide but is centered in Cairo. ▪ a series of arts events centered at the city park — see also centered