- Vocation
- Vocation Vo*ca"tion (v[-o]*k[=a]"sh[u^]n), n. [L. vocatio a
bidding, invitation, fr. vocare to call, fr. vox, vocis,
voice: cf. F. vocation. See {Vocal}.]
1. A call; a summons; a citation; especially, a designation
or appointment to a particular state, business, or
profession.
[1913 Webster]
What can be urged for them who not having the vocation of poverty to scribble, out of mere wantonness make themselves ridiculous? --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
2. Destined or appropriate employment; calling; occupation; trade; business; profession. [1913 Webster]
He would think his service greatly rewarded, if he might obtain by that means to live in the sight of his prince, and yet practice his own chosen vocation. --Sir. P. Sidney. [1913 Webster]
3. (Theol.) A calling by the will of God. Specifically: [1913 Webster] (a) The bestowment of God's distinguishing grace upon a person or nation, by which that person or nation is put in the way of salvation; as, the vocation of the Jews under the old dispensation, and of the Gentiles under the gospel. ``The golden chain of vocation, election, and justification.'' --Jer. Taylor. [1913 Webster] (b) A call to special religious work, as to the ministry. [1913 Webster]
Every member of the same [the Church], in his vocation and ministry. --Bk. of Com. Prayer. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.