professionalism

American  

[pruh-fesh-uh-nl-iz-uhm] / prəˈfɛʃ ə nlˌɪz əm /

noun

1. professional character, spirit, or methods.

2. the standing, practice, or methods of a professional, as distinguished from an amateur.

---

professionalism British  

/ prəˈfɛʃənəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. the methods, character, status, etc, of a professional

2. the pursuit of an activity for gain or livelihood

---

Usage

What does professionalism mean? Professionalism most commonly means the state or practice of doing one’s job with skill, competence, ethics, and courtesy. Professionalism is based on the word professional, which is commonly used as an adjective to describe someone who works in this way—someone who shows professionalism. Professionalism is shown by people who take their work seriously and respect the people they work with. The word professionalism can also be used to distinguish the practices of a person who gets paid for their work from those of an amateur (which is someone who does it for fun). Example: That level of skill, dedication, and professionalism are exactly what we’re looking for in our next production manager.

Other Word Forms

• professionalist
  noun

Etymology

Origin of professionalism

First recorded in 1855–60; professional + -ism

Explanation

When you talk about the methods, characteristics, and attitudes of a person holding a job that requires higher education or advanced training, you're talking about their professionalism. The noun professionalism is usually used to describe the type of behavior you would expect from a professional person. For example, showing up to work on time, and focusing on the task at hand. And not fighting with your coworkers (unless you're a professional wrestler).

Example Sentences

Professionalism and high standards remain non-negotiable, but much of that responsibility is shared with his assistants - Lou Meadows, Louis Deacon and Sarah Hunter - young coaches still at the start of their coaching journeys.

From BBC • Sep. 23, 2025

Phifer said that if one or two states adopt the Alliance for Professionalism in Dog Training's model legislation, it will likely be easier for others to follow suit.

From Salon • Sep. 25, 2022

During his term as chief justice, Thomas established the Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism, which grew out of a committee to restore civility to the courts.

From Washington Times • Feb. 10, 2020

Professionalism and impartiality must not require us to be indifferent to the fate of the world.

From Nature • Sep. 16, 2019

Professionalism impoverishes relationship because, for instance, neither the parent nor the child gives or receives.

From Herein is Love A Study of the Biblical Doctrine of Love in Its Bearing on Personality, Parenthood, Teaching, and All Other Human Relationships. by Howe, Reuel L.

Related Words

• civility
• expertise
• rectitude
• respectability