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Definition of specialize

specialize

/ˈspɛʃ.ə.laɪz/
(UK: specialise)
spe · cial · ize
Adjective:specialized
•
Past Simple:specialized
•
Past Participle:specialized
•
Present Participle:specializing
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specialize Lexical Profile

specialize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To concentrate on and become an expert in a particular subject, skill, or line of business.

Example

"After completing her medical degree, she decided to specialize in pediatric cardiology."

2

To adapt or set apart an organ, organism, or object for a specific function or environment.

Example

"Over millions of years, these desert plants have evolved to specialize their leaves for water storage."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for specialize

• Nearby Words

specialism
specialist
specialization
specialize
specialized
specially
specialness

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the early 17th century from French spécialiser, formed from the adjective special (from Latin specialis, meaning 'particular' or 'individual', derived from species, meaning 'kind' or 'appearance').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Specialize. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/specialize
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