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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
What is the team’s professionalism and motivation like? Nick Bereza, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024 Showing her professionalism, Swift never stopped singing, with one fan posting a video on X that shows the superstar keeping the beat by tapping her foot. David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024 The team handled these daily challenges with the utmost grace, passion, and professionalism. Matt Grobar, Deadline, 1 Nov. 2024 In full Everyman mode, Tom Hanks plays Sully as a man whose heroism and professionalism are inextricable. Keith Phipps, Vulture, 1 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for professionalism 

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 21 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!