ˈ ̷ ̷shəˌlīz verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Usage: see -ize
Etymology: special (I) + -ize
transitive verb
1. : to consider separately : itemize
specialized each item — Vicki Baum
2. : to limit in scope or interest : focus on a special area of knowledge or activity
specialized his studies
intransitive verb
1. : to go into detail : particularize
first give a general outline, then specialize
2. : to concentrate one's efforts : develop or pursue a specialty
specialize in copyright law
their restaurants specialize in Swedish cuisine — American Guide Series: New York
the company specializes in jet engines
3. : to undergo specialization ; especially : to change adaptively
many organisms specialize for a predacious existence