To declare or claim something openly, or to practice a profession or religion.
From Old French 'profess' and Latin 'profiteri,' meaning 'to declare publicly' (pro- = forward, fateri = to confess). Originally used in religious contexts when monks 'professed' their vows, later broadened to mean claiming any belief or occupation.
Medieval monks 'professed' their vows in front of the entire monastery, which is why we still use this word for public declarations—it literally means announcing something before witnesses!
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