specialize

especially British, spe·cial·ise

[spesh-uh-lahyz]

verb (used without object)

specialized, specializing 

1. to pursue some special line of study, work, etc.; have a specialty.

   The doctor specializes in gastroenterology.

2. Biology.,  (of an organism or one of its organs) to be adapted to a special function or environment.

verb (used with object)

specialized, specializing 

1. to render special or specific; invest with a special character, function, etc.

2. to adapt to special conditions; restrict to specific limits.

3. to restrict payment of (a negotiable instrument) by endorsing over to a specific payee.

4. to specify; particularize.

specialize

/ ˈspɛʃəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. (intr) to train in or devote oneself to a particular area of study, occupation, or activity

2. (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

3. (tr) to modify or make suitable for a special use or purpose

4. (tr) to mention specifically; specify

5. (tr) to endorse (a commercial paper) to a specific payee

Other Word Forms

• specialization noun
• nonspecializing adjective
• overspecialize verb
• prespecialize verb (used without object)
• subspecialize verb
• superspecialize verb (used without object)
• unspecializing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of specialize¹

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

Example Sentences

A communal destination since 2020, the shop has earned a reputation for specializing in notebooks, stickers and pens from Japan.

From Los Angeles Times

DTLA, which specialized in these cases, filed many of its older lawsuits without the certificate, considered by the Legislature as a critical way to prevent fraudulent claims.

From Los Angeles Times

Last month, he and Hall flew to visit the Houston offices of Industrial Tent Systems, a family-owned company that specializes in quickly building temporary structures.

From Salon

Marquette University political scientist Risa Brooks, who specializes in civilian-military relations, echoed that concern, warning that the speeches reflected an effort to realign the military with a partisan political agenda.

From Salon

They were taken to the organization’s Ramona Wildlife Center on March 26 for specialized rehabilitation and veterinary care.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• train