specialize

[ spesh-uh-lahyz ]
/ ˈspɛʃ əˌlaɪz /
SEE SYNONYMS FOR specialize ON THESAURUS.COM

verb (used without object), spe·cial·ized, spe·cial·iz·ing.

to pursue some special line of study, work, etc.; have a specialty: The doctor specializes in gastroenterology.
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.

to render special or specific; invest with a special character, function, etc.
to adapt to special conditions; restrict to specific limits.
to restrict payment of (a negotiable instrument) by endorsing over to a specific payee.
to specify; particularize.
Also especially British, spe·cial·ise.

Origin of specialize

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

OTHER WORDS FROM specialize

Words nearby specialize

specialist, specialist registrar, specialistic, speciality, specialization, specialize, specialty, speciate, speciation, specie, specie point

Words related to specialized

functional, particular

Example sentences from the Web for specialized

British Dictionary definitions for specialized

specialize

specialise

/ (ˈspɛʃəˌlaɪz) /

verb

(intr) to train in or devote oneself to a particular area of study, occupation, or activity
(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
(tr) to modify or make suitable for a special use or purpose
(tr) to mention specifically; specify
(tr) to endorse (a commercial paper) to a specific payee

Derived forms of specialize

specialization or specialisation, noun

Medical definitions for specialized

specialize
[ spĕsh′ə-līz′ ]

v.

To limit one's profession to a particular specialty or subject area for study, research, or treatment.
To adapt to a particular function or environment.