specialize

[ spesh-uh-lahyz ]

verb (used without object)

, spe·cial·ized, spe·cial·iz·ing.

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)

, spe·cial·ized, spe·cial·iz·ing.

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

Derived Forms

• ˌspecialiˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• spe·cial·i·za·tion [spesh-, uh, -lahy-, zey, -sh, uh, n], noun
• non·spe·cial·iz·ing adjective
• o·ver·spe·cial·ize verb overspecialized overspecializing
• pre·spe·cial·ize verb (used without object) prespecialized prespecializing
• sub·spe·cial·ize verb subspecialized subspecializing
• su·per·spe·cial·ize verb (used without object) superspecialized superspecializing
• un·spe·cial·iz·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of specialize¹

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

Example Sentences

Transcription initiation sites are locations in the DNA where a specialized transcription-factor protein can attach and then build an mRNA copy of the gene in front of it.

From Science Daily

"I would expect them to be surgical in nature," says Brandon Daniels, CEO at Exiger, a risk and compliance firm specializing in areas such as supply chains.

From Salon

Fibroblasts are specialized cells in connective tissues that play an important role in wound healing and tissue repair.

From Science Daily

“Law enforcement professionals investigating these types of egregious crimes have specialized training and follow specific protocols to ensure a proper investigation, evidence preservation, and public safety,” the release said.

From Los Angeles Times

Color occurs because our eyes are equipped with rods and cones — specialized light-absorbing cells in the retina at the back of the eye.

From Salon

Related Words

• train