1the actual application or use of an idea, belief, or method, as opposed to theories relating to it:the principles and practice of teachingthe recommendations proved too expensive to put into practice
the carrying out or exercise of a profession, especially that of a doctor or lawyer:he abandoned medical practice for the Church
[count noun] the business or premises of a doctor or lawyer:Dr Apps has a practice in Neasham Road
2the customary, habitual, or expected procedure or way of doing of something:product placement is common practice in American movies [count noun]:modern child-rearing practices
an established method of legal procedure.
3repeated exercise in or performance of an activity or skill so as to acquire or maintain proficiency in it:it must have taken a lot of practice to become so fluent
[count noun] a period of time spent practising an activity or skill:daily choir practices
1in reality (used to refer to what actually happens as opposed to what is meant or believed to happen):in theory this method is ideal—in practice it is unrealistic
2currently proficient in a particular activity or skill as a result of repeated exercise or performance of it.
out of practice
not currently proficient in a particular activity or skill through not having exercised or performed it for some time:he was out of practice at interrogation
practice makes perfect
regular exercise of an activity or skill is the way to become proficient in it.
