v. (US practice) 1 tr. perform habitually; carry out in action (practise the same method; practise what you preach). 2 tr. & (foll. by in, on) intr. do repeatedly as an exercise to improve a skill; exercise oneself in or on (an activity requiring skill) (had to practise in the art of speaking; practise your reading). 3 tr. (as practised adj.) experienced, expert (a practised liar; with a practised hand). 4 tr. a pursue or be engaged in (a profession, religion, etc.). b (as practising adj.) currently active or engaged in (a profession or activity) (a practising Christian; a practising lawyer). 5 intr. (foll. by on, upon) take advantage of; impose upon. 6 intr. archaic scheme, contrive (when first we practise to deceive). practiser n.
[ ME f. OF pra(c)tiser or med.L practizare alt. f. practicare (as PRACTICAL) ]