English Reference
Noun

centrist

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈsɛntɹɪst/ UK /sˈɛntɹɪst/ cen·trist UK spelling centrists

n.a person whose political beliefs are in the middle, rather than being very liberal or very conservative. You use this to describe someone who prefers moderate changes and compromise.

n.a person who holds moderate political views and avoids extreme positions on either the left or the right of the political spectrum.


SIMPLE

The candidate is a centrist who hopes to appeal to all voters.

CONTEXTUAL

As a lifelong centrist, the senator often acts as a bridge between the two major parties during difficult budget negotiations.

COMPLEX

Political analysts argue that while the party base is moving toward the fringes, the election will ultimately be decided by the centrist who prioritizes economic stability over ideological purity.

Usage

Often used as a modifier before another noun, such as 'centrist policies' or 'centrist candidate'.

But the appointment of Tugendhat as shadow foreign secretary would bring a key voice from the party’s more centrist One Nation grouping into the fold, though Tugendhat is hawkish on foreign affairs.

The Guardian· 31 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Occasional
Updated