vocation
UK: vəʊˈkeɪʃən | US: voʊˈkeɪʃən
n. a strong feeling of suitability for a particular career or occupation
n. a person's employment or main occupation, especially regarded as worthy and requiring dedication
n. (theology) a divine call to God's service or to the Christian life
The word "vocation" originates from the Latin vocatio ("a calling, summons"), derived from vocare ("to call"). The root voc- (as seen in "vocal," "invoke," and "advocate") reflects the core idea of "calling" or "summoning." Over time, the term evolved in English to emphasize a sense of purpose or divine calling, particularly in religious contexts, before broadening to secular professions. The suffix -ation transforms the verb into a noun, denoting the state or result of being "called."
Teaching was more than a job to her; it was a vocation.
He felt a strong vocation to serve in the medical field.
The priest spoke about answering God’s vocation with humility.
Many artists describe their work as a vocation rather than a career.
She pursued her vocation as a social worker despite the challenges.