Professionalism

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /pɹəˈfɛʃənəˌlɪzəm/

Definitions

1. The trait that involves demonstrating skills, ethical practices, and commitment to high standards within a specific vocation or field of work
2. A characteristic defined by the application of expertise, adherence to ethical norms, and a strong dedication to maintaining quality in one's professional conduct
3. The quality of consistently exhibiting competence, ethical behavior, and a dedication to maintaining high standards in one's professional role

Etymology: The word is a straightforward formation: "professional" with the suffix "-ism" attached, and the "-ism" itself carries a long Greek pedigree. The suffix comes through Latin from the Ancient Greek "-ismos" (and its earlier form "-isma"), a noun-forming ending that turns a verb stem into a name for an action, practice, or system. Greek used it with verbs ending in "-izein", which is why the same ending appears in so many English words of doctrine and behaviour. The base word, "professional", comes from Latin "professus", the past participle of "profiteri", meaning "to declare publicly" or "to profess". Its original sense was tied to making a public vow or declaring allegiance, which is why "profess" still carries the idea of openly stating a belief. Over time the adjective shifted from declaring a faith to pursuing an occupation for pay and skill, and "professionalism" names the quality of conducting that occupation in the manner expected of someone who has openly committed to it.

Synonyms: competence, expertise, skill, proficiency, mastery

Antonyms: incompetence, ineptitude, unprofessionalism, ignorance, amateurism