professionalize

[ pruh-fesh-uh-nl-ahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, pro·fes·sion·al·ized, pro·fes·sion·al·iz·ing.

1. to give a professional character or status to; make into or establish as a profession.

verb (used without object)

, pro·fes·sion·al·ized, pro·fes·sion·al·iz·ing.

1. to become professional.

professionalize

/ prəˈfɛʃənəˌlaɪz /

verb

1. tr to impose a professional structure or status on (something)

Derived Forms

• proˌfessionaliˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• pro·fession·al·ist noun
• pro·fession·al·i·zation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of professionalize¹

First recorded in 1855–60; professional + -ize

Example Sentences

The strategy is built on professionalizing law enforcement and implementing the sorts of data-driven and community policing models used in many U.S. cities.

From Los Angeles Times

The city has for years sought to professionalize the ranks of interventionists, providing new oversight and training.

From Los Angeles Times

Abroad, the Women’s Super League did not become fully professionalized until 2018.

From Seattle Times

But experts question whether her strategies — expanding community policing and professionalizing cops — would transfer to a national level.

From Los Angeles Times

There’s also a movement to professionalize the field of animal-assisted therapy and ensure the animals involved are treated in a safe and ethical manner.

From Seattle Times