English Reference
noun · adjective

specialist

n. · adj.
US /ˈspɛʃəɫəst/ UK /spˈɛʃəlˌɪst/ spe·cial·ist UK spelling specialist's, specialist's

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.someone who has a lot of knowledge or skill in a specific subject.

    n.an individual who is highly skilled or knowledgeable in a particular field of study or research.

    Simple

    The company hired a marketing specialist to help improve their online sales.

    In context

    The university invited a specialist in medieval history to lead the seminar on early European trade routes.

    generalistamateur
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Medicine

    n.a doctor who focuses on one specific part of the body or a certain type of illness.

    n.a physician whose practice is limited to a particular branch of medicine or surgery.

    Simple

    My family doctor sent me to see a heart specialist for more tests.

    In context

    After the initial diagnosis, the patient was referred to a specialist in oncology for a more detailed treatment plan.

    general practitioner
  3. 03 C1 Advanced American EnglishTechnical

    n.a specific rank in the U.S. Army for a soldier with technical skills.

    n.an enlisted rank in the United States Army, typically corresponding to the pay grade of E-4, above private first class.

    Simple

    He was promoted to specialist after completing his technical training.

    In context

    The specialist was responsible for maintaining the unit's advanced communication equipment during the field exercise.

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate British English

    adj.relating to a very specific subject that requires deep knowledge.

    adj.involving or requiring detailed, expert knowledge of a restricted or specific topic.

    Simple

    The library has a large collection of specialist books on local plants.

    In context

    The journal publishes specialist articles that are often too technical for the average reader to understand.

    Usage

    Usually placed before a noun.

Jacobean music specialist and lutenist Elizabeth Kenny showcases some of the best of it on her album, The Masque of Moments .

The Guardian· 13 Aug 2026

People in England needing immediate care for mental health problems will be able to access specialist walk-in hubs close to their home, the government is promising.

BBC News· 6 Aug 2026

Borrowed from French spécialiste, equivalent to special + -ist.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated