professionalism

American  

[pruh-fesh-uh-nl-iz-uhm] / prəˈfɛʃ ə nlˌɪz əm /

noun

1. professional character, spirit, or methods.

2. the standing, practice, or methods of a professional, as distinguished from an amateur.

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professionalism British  

/ prəˈfɛʃənəˌlɪzəm /

noun

1. the methods, character, status, etc, of a professional

2. the pursuit of an activity for gain or livelihood

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Usage

What does professionalism mean? Professionalism most commonly means the state or practice of doing one’s job with skill, competence, ethics, and courtesy. Professionalism is based on the word professional, which is commonly used as an adjective to describe someone who works in this way—someone who shows professionalism. Professionalism is shown by people who take their work seriously and respect the people they work with. The word professionalism can also be used to distinguish the practices of a person who gets paid for their work from those of an amateur (which is someone who does it for fun). Example: That level of skill, dedication, and professionalism are exactly what we’re looking for in our next production manager.

Other Word Forms

• professionalist noun

Etymology

Origin of professionalism

First recorded in 1855–60; professional + -ism

Explanation

When you talk about the methods, characteristics, and attitudes of a person holding a job that requires higher education or advanced training, you're talking about their professionalism. The noun professionalism is usually used to describe the type of behavior you would expect from a professional person. For example, showing up to work on time, and focusing on the task at hand. And not fighting with your coworkers (unless you're a professional wrestler).

Example Sentences

The conflict has showcased the expertise, professionalism and courage of America’s men and women in uniform.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

Voices from across the military tout humble, dignified professionalism as essential to morale and project confidence from leadership down through the ranks.

From Slate • Apr. 13, 2026

“It was allowed. I really think it shows a lot of growth on the part of political professionalism, that these things are taken seriously.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2026

"Traci has carved out a distinctive niche by leading with professionalism, precision and purpose," says Holloway.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2026

“If I am not mistaken,” she said, with all the professionalism she could muster, “you are the Long-Lost Lumleys.”

From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood

Related Words

• civility
• expertise
• rectitude
• respectability