skilled

Skilled is an adjective used to describe someone who has a high level of competence in a particular activity, task, or field. A skilled person can perform complex work with accuracy, efficiency, and sound judgment, often drawing on training, practice, or formal credentialing.

In labor markets, skilled commonly contrasts with unskilled or semi-skilled labor. Definitions vary by country and sector, but skilled work typically requires specialized training, an apprenticeship, certification, or a degree. Examples include electricians, machinists, teachers, nurses, and software engineers.

Etymology: The adjective derives from the noun skill, rooted in Old English and related Germanic words. The sense of proficiency has evolved over centuries to describe demonstrated ability rather than mere knowledge.

Policy and economics: Skilled labor is a focus of immigration policies, wage analyses, and workforce development programs. Countries address shortages by recognizing credentials, offering training, and creating pathways for skilled migration and professional mobility. The term also informs classifications used in statistics and planning, such as groups describing labor force quality and educational attainment.

In everyday use, skilled may describe craft, performance, or problem-solving ability beyond the ordinary. The term is often applied to occupations known as skilled trades and to contexts that require precision, judgment, and specialized know-how.