specialize

American  

[spesh-uh-lahyz] / ˈspɛʃ əˌlaɪz /

especially British, specialise

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.

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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 British  

/ 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

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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

Some of those players could include OpenAI-backer Microsoft, Oracle and SAP—all of which offer their own specialized AI agents designed to automate business processes.

From The Wall Street Journal

She previously worked for Bloomberg Industry Group and American Lawyer Media in Washington, specializing in the gig economy, civil rights, and discrimination law.

From The Wall Street Journal

Now it is transitioning to bankrolling the specialized equipment that remains a foreign chokepoint.

From The Wall Street Journal

Black history isn’t a specialized field relevant only to some Americans.

From The Wall Street Journal

He has also channeled his experiences to launch Awear, an online marketplace that features what it calls “non-toxic brands,” specializing in everyday goods such as hygiene products and clothing.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• train