SPECIALIZED

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

IPA (US):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does specialized mean? 

• SPECIALIZED (adjective)
  The adjective SPECIALIZED has 1 sense:

1. developed or designed for a special activity or function

  Familiarity information: SPECIALIZED used as an adjective is very rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• SPECIALIZED (adjective)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Developed or designed for a special activity or function

Synonyms:

specialised; specialized

Context example:

a specialized tool

Similar:

differentiated (exhibiting biological specialization; adapted during development to a specific function or environment)

special (adapted to or reserved for a particular purpose)

specialistic (showing focused training)

Also:

specific ((sometimes followed by 'to') applying to or characterized by or distinguishing something particular or special or unique)

Antonym:

unspecialized (not specialized or modified for a particular purpose or function)

 Context examples 

We sense temperature changes in the environment through specialized nerve cells in the outer layers of the skin.

(Brain cells that cool the body, NIH)

Cells specialized to detect and transduce light.

(Murine Photoreceptors, Vertebrate, NLM, Medical Subject Headings)

The system consists of many specialized cytoplasmic proteins, including actin, myosin, tubulin, kinesin, other cytoskeletal and contractile system proteins.

(Contractile System, NCI Thesaurus)

The process during which young, immature (unspecialized) cells take on individual characteristics and reach their mature (specialized) form and function.

(Cell differentiation, NCI Dictionary)

Glandular production of a hormone or other substance which will perform a specialized function outside the gland.

(Cellular Secretion, NIH CRISP Thesaurus)

Specialized connective tissue includes bone, cartilage, blood, and fat.

(Connective tissue, NCI Dictionary)

A specialized division of a large organization.

(Department, NCI Thesaurus)

A small mass of tissue within a gland or organ that carries out the specialized functions of the gland or organ.

(Nodular parenchyma, NCI Dictionary)

Muscle tissue is composed of specialized contractile cells.

(Muscle Tissue, NCI Thesaurus)

A medical doctor with specialized training in the care of children.

(Pediatrician, NCI Thesaurus)