specialization

noun

spe·​cial·​i·​za·​tion ˌspe-sh(ə-)lə-ˈzā-shən 

1

: a making or becoming specialized

2

a

: structural adaptation of a body part to a particular function or of an organism for life in a particular environment

b

: a body part or an organism adapted by specialization

Examples of specialization in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Charles went on to graduate from Columbia University's College of Physicians and Surgeons in 2016, earning his Doctor of Medicine with a specialization in psychiatry. —Catherine Santino, PEOPLE, 23 Apr. 2026

Its focus on resource scarcity, crew specialization, and critical infrastructure mirrors the challenges of operating a real lunar outpost. —Alan Bradley, Space.com, 22 Apr. 2026

This gives the field more specific specializations, and each has its own history that includes prominent journalists covering certain genres. —Encyclopedia Britannica, 22 Apr. 2026

Our world-first master’s degree specialization in Cruise Line Operations and bachelor’s degree is a perfect example. —Dr. Michael Cheng, Miami Herald, 21 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1831, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing specialization

• sub-specialization

Rhymes for specialization

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration

Kids Definition

specialization

noun

spe·​cial·​i·​za·​tion ˌspesh-(ə-)lə-ˈzā-shən 

1

: a making or becoming specialized

2

a

: a change in the structure of a body part so that it becomes suited for performing a particular function or of a whole plant or animal so that it is suited for life in a particular environment

b

: a body part or an organism changed by specialization

Medical Definition

specialization

noun

spe·​cial·​iza·​tion ˌspesh-(ə-)lə-ˈzā-shən 

variants also British specialisation

ˌspesh-ə-ˌlī- 

1

: a making or becoming specialized

specialization in pediatrics

2

a

: structural adaptation of a body part to a particular function or of an organism for life in a particular environment

b

: a body part or an organism adapted by specialization