specialize
UK: ˈspeʃ.əl.aɪz | US: ˈspeʃ.əl.aɪz
vi. to focus on a specific area of study, work, or skill
vt. to adapt or design something for a particular purpose
specialize = special<particular> + ize<verb suffix>
- special: From Latin specialis (individual, particular), derived from species (appearance, kind).
- ize: A verb-forming suffix from Greek -izein, indicating "to make" or "to become."
Etymology Origin:
The word specialize emerged in the early 17th century, combining special (highlighting uniqueness) with -ize (to enact or transform). It originally described the act of distinguishing something as distinct, later evolving to denote focused expertise in a field (e.g., medicine, science). The suffix -ize systematically converts nouns/adjectives into verbs, reflecting action-oriented adaptation.
Many doctors specialize in cardiology after medical school.
The company decided to specialize in eco-friendly products.
Birds’ beaks often specialize to suit their diet.
She chose to specialize in Renaissance art history.
The workshop will help you specialize your skills for the job market.