professionalism

noun

pro·​fes·​sion·​al·​ism prə-ˈfesh-nə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce professionalism (audio)
-ˈfe-shə-nə-ˌli-
1
: the conduct, aims, or qualities that characterize or mark a profession or a professional person
2
: the following of a profession (such as athletics) for gain or livelihood

Examples of professionalism in a Sentence

For writers such as Alexander Pope and Samuel Johnson, struggling in the transition from the age of patronage to that of Grub Street professionalism, Shakespeare offered not only a body of poetic invention but also an inspirational career trajectory. Jonathan Bate, Harper's, April 2007
In Washington, careerism has so trumped professionalism among political journalists as to render Alterman's ethical concerns almost quaint. Gene Lyons, Harper's, October 2003
It is difficult not to contrast the professionalism of modestly paid firefighters and police doing their duty on September 11 with the secretive … behavior of six- and seven-figure accountants, lawyers, CEOs, bankers, and financial analysts who failed at their duty with Enron. Bruce Nussbaum, Business Week, 28 Jan. 2002
A high level of professionalism is expected when working with clients. She is highly respected for her professionalism.
Recent Examples on the Web Share [Findings] Online murder-for-hire advertisements seek to convey professionalism yet tend not to provide references up front. Rafil Kroll-Zaidi, Harper's Magazine, 24 Apr. 2024 The professionalism, courtesy and organization displayed by the Registrar of Voters staff was outstanding. Letters To The Editor, The Mercury News, 22 Apr. 2024 In this case, Officer Barron did not conduct himself in a manner that represents the professionalism of our officers. Nicole Lopez, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 Apr. 2024 Their highly skilled surgeons offer excellent therapy and post-operative care in addition to performing the procedures with the highest level of professionalism. Chiara Accardi, The Hollywood Reporter, 2 Apr. 2024 Emphasize the importance of maintaining professionalism and respect in the workplace. Johnny C. Taylor Jr., USA TODAY, 26 Mar. 2024 But Dunst gives the character a comparable steeliness, a cut-the-crap professionalism that gets you immediately on her side. Justin Chang, The New Yorker, 12 Apr. 2024 But his go-with-the-flow professionalism has proven to be a crucial element of his value to the Nuggets. Bennett Durando, The Denver Post, 10 Apr. 2024 Elevate professionalism and civility in board meetings, and consider adopting board meeting rules promoting civility and order. Kelly G. Richardson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'professionalism.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1856, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of professionalism was in 1856

Dictionary Entries Near professionalism

Cite this Entry

“Professionalism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/professionalism. Accessed 27 Apr. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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