plural professions
1
: a type of job that requires special education, training, or skill
The doctor talked to students who are thinking about entering/joining the profession.
the legal profession
Most professions in the medical field require years of training.
He is a carpenter by profession. = His profession is carpentry.
(humorous) She works in the (world's) oldest profession. [=she is a prostitute]
2
: the people who work in a particular profession
Their daughter recently became a member of the medical profession.
The teaching profession opposes the new law. = (Brit) The teaching profession oppose the new law.
3
formal
: the act of declaring or saying something openly
—often + of
She made a profession of religious faith.
Cite this Entry
“Profession.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/profession. Accessed 28 Sep. 2026.
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