profession

noun

1. 1

   A declaration of belief, faith or one's opinion, whether genuine or pretended.

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

2. 2

   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.”

3. 3

   The practitioners of such an occupation collectively.

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

4. 4

   A promise or vow made on entering a religious order.

   “She died only a few years after her profession.”