specialize
Americanverb (used without object)
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to pursue some special line of study, work, etc.; have a specialty.
The doctor specializes in gastroenterology.
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Biology. (of an organism or one of its organs) to be adapted to a special function or environment.
verb (used with object)
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to render special or specific; invest with a special character, function, etc.
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to adapt to special conditions; restrict to specific limits.
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to restrict payment of (a negotiable instrument) by endorsing over to a specific payee.
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to specify; particularize.
verb
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(intr) to train in or devote oneself to a particular area of study, occupation, or activity
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(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
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(tr) to modify or make suitable for a special use or purpose
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(tr) to mention specifically; specify
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(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.
Shelters were full, and landlords were demanding — and getting — exorbitant rents and advance payments that Kareet, who owns a pet shop specializing in birds, simply couldn’t afford.
From Los Angeles Times
Everyone thought they would become commoditized, and now they are becoming more specialized.
From Barron's
NordVPN has more servers in more countries, along with a broader range of specialized options for privacy and performance.
From Salon
A specialized protein pumps protons into lysosomes to create this acidity.
From Science Daily
He specializes in analyzing data and public records to find stories and collaborates with reporters who cover many subjects.
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.
