specialization

Etymology

specialize + -ation

noun

1. The act or process of specializing.
   A human being should be able to change a diaper, plan an invasion, butcher a hog, conn a ship, design a building, write a sonnet, balance accounts, build a wall, set a bone, comfort the dying, take orders, give orders, cooperate, act alone, solve equations, analyze a new problem, pitch manure, program a computer, cook a tasty meal, fight efficiently, die gallantly. Specialization is for insects. 1973, Robert A. Heinlein, Time Enough For Love
2. The area in which someone specializes.
   Many MBA programs now allow students to obtain a specialization in sport management. This differs from the joint degree programs in that only one degree, an MBA, is awarded (i.e., a separate master's degree in sport management is not awarded). The MBA with a sport management specialization should be considered as a second option in lieu of the joint degree. 2012, Glenn M. Wong, The Comprehensive Guide to Careers in Sports, Jones & Bartlett Publishers, page 35
3. (biology) The adaptation of an organism to a specific environment, or adaptation of an organ to a particular function.
   Specialization is frequently divided into two categories largely based on methods of study: food specialization and specialization with respect to microhabitat. 2012, O. A. Jones, Biology and Geology of Coral Reefs V2: Biology 1, Elsevier, page 248
4. (mathematics) A proof, axiom, problem, or definition whose cases are completely covered by another, broader concept.
   A triangle is a specialization of a polygon to one with exactly three sides.