profession

noun

1. 1

   A declaration of faith. A promise or vow made on entering a religious order.

   She died only a few years after her profession.

   Rosario was a young novice belonging to the monastery, who in three months intended to make his profession.

2. 2

   A declaration of faith. The declaration of belief in the principles of a religion; hence, one's faith or religion.

   I congratulate you upon the wisdom that withheld you from entering yourself a member of the Protestant Association […] it is likely to bring an odium upon the profession they make, that will not soon be forgotten.

3. 3

   A declaration of faith. Any declaration of belief, faith or one's opinion, whether genuine or (as now often implied) pretended.

   Despite his continued professions of innocence, the court eventually sentenced him to five years.

   a profession of support

   I scarcely know any thing that really interests me, and I would give a great deal not to be so quick-sighted as I am; it would be so pleasant to believe only a tithe of the professions that are made me.

4. 4

   A professional occupation. An occupation, trade, craft, or activity in which one has a professed expertise in a particular area; a job, especially one requiring a high level of skill or training.

   My father was a barrister by profession.

   “You are very idle, Cashel; I am sure of that. It is too provoking to throw away so much money every year for nothing. Besides, you must soon be thinking of a profession.” “I shall go into the army,” said Cashel. “It is the only profession for a gentleman.”

5. 5

   A professional occupation. The practitioners of such an occupation collectively.

   His conduct is against the established practices of the legal profession.

Forms

plural

professions