WordGarden.iovocation
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /vəʊkˈeɪʃən/
US
- /voʊˈkeɪʃən/
Meanings
Noun
a line of work or calling that suits a person especially well
a calling to religious life or service
Beyond the definition
A vocation isn't just what you do for work; it is a strong sense that this is the kind of work you are meant to do. Think of a nurse caring for patients every day. That may be their job, but if they feel deeply drawn to helping people, nursing may also be their vocation.
In the past, "vocation" was closely linked to religious life and meant a calling from God. Today, people also use it in a wider way to mean a profession or kind of work that feels deeply right for someone. An artist might say painting is their vocation, even if they still need another job to pay the bills. The idea is not just work, but work joined with purpose.
The word "vocation" comes from the Latin word vocare, meaning "to call." Originally, it referred specifically to a divine calling—a religious life or service considered a duty ordained by God. Monks and nuns traditionally spoke of their "vocation" as a summons to enter a monastery or convent.
However, over time, the meaning broadened significantly. Today, vocation refers to a strong feeling of suitability for a particular career or occupation. It's more than just having a job; it's about finding work that aligns with your values, passions, and talents—something you feel called to do. A doctor who dedicates their life to healing the sick might describe medicine as their vocation. Similarly, a teacher passionate about inspiring young minds could say teaching is their true calling.
It is helpful to distinguish between a "job," a "career," and a "vocation." A job is simply something you do for money. A career is a progression of jobs and professional growth over time. But a vocation is deeper—it is the inner drive that makes work meaningful, fulfilling, and central to your identity.
Sometimes people spend years searching for their vocation, trying different paths until they find what truly resonates with them. It is not always about prestige or high income; it is about finding something you love doing and believe in wholeheartedly. As Frederick Buechner famously wrote, "Your vocation is the place where your deep gladness meets the world's great need."
Examples
- 1
Nursing calling
For her, nursing was never just a job; it was a vocation.
- 2
Volunteer work
He discovered his vocation while volunteering at the community radio station.
- 3
Desk work
After six months in an office, he realized he had no vocation for desk work.
- Patternhave no vocation for + work/activity
not feel naturally suited to it
- 4
Work with children
She felt a strong vocation to work with children who needed extra support.
- Patterna vocation to do X
a strong feeling that this is the work or life you should choose
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Religious calling
The retreat helped several students think seriously about a religious vocation.
- Phrasea religious vocation
a calling to become a priest, nun, or other religious worker
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- find one's vocation
- true vocation
- vocation for teaching
- religious vocation
Word family
Explore
- career path
- purpose
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- vocationnoun
Forms
- vocationspluralnoun