centrist

American  

[sen-trist] / ˈsɛn trɪst /

Or Centrist

noun

1. (especially in continental Europe) a member of a political party of the Center; moderate.

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adjective

1. of or relating to centrists or to their political views; middle-of-the-road.

centrist British  

/ ˈsɛntrɪst /

noun

1. a person holding moderate political views

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Other Word Forms

• centrism noun

Etymology

Origin of centrist

From the French word centriste, dating back to 1870–75; center, -ist

Example Sentences

In Bolivia, the recent election of President Rodrigo Paz, a business-friendly centrist, after years of socialist rule has buoyed hopes that the government might ease state controls over the lithium industry.

From The Wall Street Journal

His opponent, Republican John Duarte, who cast himself a centrist in the race, had only held the seat for one term before being beat.

From Los Angeles Times

In an interview with Salon, Lawrence rejected the notion that Americans are yearning for a centrist party, saying that voters want candidates who offer tangible material, positive change.

From Salon

Bolivia elected a centrist, pro-market president last month after nearly two decades of socialist rule, his inauguration attended by Christopher Landau, the U.S.’s deputy secretary of state.

From The Wall Street Journal

Critics blame him for allowing centrist Democrats to give up the political game of chicken, which they appeared to be winning.

From Salon

Related Words

• mainstreamer
• middle-of-the-roader
• moderatist