01 n. A call; a summons; a citation; especially, a designation or appointment to a particular state, business, or profession.
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1.
A call; a summons; a citation; especially, a designation or appointment to a particular state, business, or profession.“What can be urged for them who not having the vocation of poverty to scribble, out of mere wantonness make themselves ridiculous?” — Dryden.
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2.
Destined or appropriate employment; calling; occupation; trade; business; profession.“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.
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3.
A calling by the will of God.(Theol.)
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4.
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.
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5.
A call to special religious work, as to the ministry.“Every member of the same [the Church], in his vocation and ministry.” — Bk. of Com. Prayer.