profession — English Dictionary

Noun

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

   Examples

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

   Examples

   More examples (1)

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

   Examples

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

   a profession of support

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   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. 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.

   Examples

   My father was a barrister by profession.

   More examples (1)

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

   Usage

   • collective

   Examples

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

Noun

1. the body of people in a learned occupation

   Broader terms

   occupational groupvocation

   Examples

   the news spread rapidly through the medical profession

2. an occupation requiring special education (especially in the liberal arts or sciences)

   Broader terms

   occupationbusinessjobline of workline

3. an open avowal (true or false) of some belief or opinion

   Synonyms

   professing

   Broader terms

   avowalavouchmentaffirmation

   Examples

   a profession of disagreement

4. affirmation of acceptance of some religion or faith

   Broader terms

   affirmation

   Examples

   a profession of Christianity