Dictionary.com

specialize

[ spesh-uh-lahyz ]
/ ˈspɛʃ əˌlaɪz /
Save This Word!
See synonyms for: specialize / specialized / specializes / specializing on Thesaurus.com

verb (used without object), spe·cial·ized, spe·cial·iz·ing.
to pursue some special line of study, work, etc.; have a specialty: The doctor specializes in gastroenterology.
Biology. (of an organism or one of its organs) to be adapted to a special function or environment.
verb (used with object), spe·cial·ized, spe·cial·iz·ing.
to render special or specific; invest with a special character, function, etc.
to adapt to special conditions; restrict to specific limits.
to restrict payment of (a negotiable instrument) by endorsing over to a specific payee.
to specify; particularize.
QUIZ
CAN YOU ANSWER THESE COMMON GRAMMAR DEBATES?
There are grammar debates that never die; and the ones highlighted in the questions in this quiz are sure to rile everyone up once again. Do you know how to answer the questions that cause some of the greatest grammar debates?
Question 1 of 7
Which sentence is correct?
Also especially British, spe·cial·ise .

Origin of specialize

From the French word spécialiser, dating back to 1605–15; see special, -ize

OTHER WORDS FROM specialize

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use specialize in a sentence

British Dictionary definitions for specialize

specialize

specialise

/ (ˈspɛʃəˌlaɪz) /

verb
(intr) to train in or devote oneself to a particular area of study, occupation, or activity
(usually passive) to cause (organisms or their parts) to develop in a way most suited to a particular environment or way of life or (of organisms, etc) to develop in this way
(tr) to modify or make suitable for a special use or purpose
(tr) to mention specifically; specify
(tr) to endorse (a commercial paper) to a specific payee

Derived forms of specialize

specialization or specialisation, 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
FEEDBACK