professionalize

[pruh-fesh-uh-nl-ahyz]

verb (used with object), pro·fes·sion·al·ized, pro·fes·sion·al·iz·ing.

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

verb (used without object), pro·fes·sion·al·ized, pro·fes·sion·al·iz·ing.

to become professional.

Also especially British, pro·fes·sion·al·ise.

Origin of professionalize

First recorded in 1855–60; professional + -ize

Related formspro·fes·sion·al·ist, nounpro·fes·sion·al·i·za·tion, noun

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

British Dictionary definitions for professionalization

professionalize

professionalise

verb

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

Derived Formsprofessionalization or professionalisation, noun

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Word Origin and History for professionalization

professionalize

1833, from professional (adj.) + -ize. Related: Professionalized; professionalizing.