specialize
Americanverb (used without object)
-
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)
-
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.
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
Other Word Forms
- nonspecializing adjective
- overspecialize verb
- prespecialize verb (used without object)
- specialization noun
- subspecialize verb
- superspecialize verb (used without object)
- unspecializing adjective
Etymology
Origin of specialize
From the French word spécialiser, dating back to 1605–15; special, -ize
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The next wave of AI-driven transformation will reach far more diverse sectors, including white-collar fields, creative arts, frontline services and even specialized trades.
From MarketWatch
The two companies will collaborate on platforms for driverless trucks, building specialized hardware and software systems that are integrated into standard trucks to give them autonomous driving capabilities.
Bots specialized for software coding, for instance, or hardware design.
From Los Angeles Times
The specialized nature of kickers can place them on the periphery of team bonding, but Loop’s teammates and coaches were supportive in the aftermath of the season-ending loss.
From Los Angeles Times
She worries having less voluminous hair could limit her job prospects at medical clinics specializing in cosmetic care or dermatology.
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
