specialize

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   become more focus on an area of activity or field of study

   They specialize in Near Eastern history.

2. 2
   verb

   suit to a special purpose

   specialize one's research

3. 3
   verb

   devote oneself to a special area of work

   They specialize in honey bees.

4. 4
   verb

   To make distinct or separate from what is common

   Firſt laſh the Great-ones ; but, if thou be wiſe, / In generall, and doe not ſpeciallize : / Yet, if thou doe, ſo wiſely let it be, / None may except but thoſe that faulty be.

5. 5
   verb

   To become distinct or separate from what is common, particularly

   These cells specialized for propagation, however they may originate, are accordingly distinguished by a special name, that of Spores of Sporules.

6. 6
   verb

   To become distinct or separate from what is common

   Also, to their honour be it said, they will not allow their scholars to specialize, and, with four hours of mathematics a week, even a Newton would not go up to Cambridge knowing much.

7. 7
   verb

   To train (someone) in a specialty.

   "Kia, Honey, you got to help him to it," Bell Norton told the 16 year old girl she was "specializing" as part of the hospital's intensive care program for high risk babies and mothers.

8. 8
   verb

   evolve so as to lead to a new species or develop in a way most suited to the environment

Etymology

From special + -ize.