practice definition

1. a customary way of operation or behavior
• examples: it is their practice to give annual raises
• examples: they changed their dietary pattern
2. translating an idea into action
• examples: a hard theory to put into practice
• examples: differences between theory and praxis of communism
3. the exercise of a profession
• examples: the practice of the law
• examples: I took over his practice when he retired
4. knowledge of how something is usually done
• examples: it is not the local practice to wear shorts to dinner
5. carry out or practice; as of jobs and professions
• examples: practice law
6. avail oneself to
• examples: apply a principle
• examples: practice a religion
• examples: use care when going down the stairs
• examples: use your common sense
• examples: practice non-violent resistance