professionalize

American  

[pruh-fesh-uh-nl-ahyz] / prəˈfɛʃ ə nlˌaɪz /

especially British, professionalise

verb (used with object)

professionalized, professionalizing

1. to give a professional character or status to; make into or establish as a profession.

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verb (used without object)

professionalized, professionalizing

1. to become professional.

professionalize British  

/ prəˈfɛʃənəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. (tr) to impose a professional structure or status on (something)

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Other Word Forms

• professionalist noun
• professionalization noun

Etymology

Origin of professionalize

First recorded in 1855–60; professional + -ize

Example Sentences

But he crafted a national strategy to strengthen and professionalize the military, restore the presence and authority of the state across the country, and deliver what he called “democratic security.”

From The Wall Street Journal

They hired Persy’s former babysitter, a graphic designer, to professionalize the designs and paid China-based Panda Games to manufacture the game.

From The Wall Street Journal

In Ukraine, the added financial firepower is helping professionalize outfits that began in garages and military units—giving them a chance to compete abroad with Western players.

From The Wall Street Journal

Among the offices housed in the East Wing is the Office of the First Lady, first professionalized by Eleanor Roosevelt during her husband’s administration.

From Salon

Zahn wanted to convey the pressure college coaches face in the increasingly professionalized world of college football.

From The Wall Street Journal