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.

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professionalism British  

/ prəˈfɛʃənəˌlɪzəm /

noun

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

2. the pursuit of an activity for gain or livelihood

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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

The Army had said it was investigating, adding, “Army aviators must adhere to strict safety standards, professionalism, and established flight regulations.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

Duckett said it's "not a secret" that professionalism is something he's "struggled with throughout my career" but has always been willing to "hold his hands up" when he's transgressed.

From BBC • Mar. 27, 2026

With these offices vacant, the task fell upon district courts to name interim U.S. attorneys, which they did with admirable professionalism.

From Slate • Mar. 24, 2026

He navigated turbulent political waters with a quiet professionalism, leaving a mark on the institutions he led and the nation he served.

From Salon • Mar. 21, 2026

“Colonel,” Zell said, when he reached him, “I just wanted to tell you how much I admire the courage and professionalism of the Marine Corps.”

From "The Great Santini" by Pat Conroy

Related Words

• civility
• expertise
• rectitude
• respectability