4. The collective body of persons engaged in a calling; as, the profession distrust him.

5. (Eccl. Law.)

Defn: The act of entering, or becoming a member of, a religious order.

PROFESSIONAL
Pro*fes"sion*al, a.

1. Of or pertaining to a profession, or calling; conforming to the rules or standards of a profession; following a profession; as, professional knowledge; professional conduct. "Pride, not personal, but professional." Macaulay. "A professional sneerer." De Quincey.

2. Engaged in by professionals; as, a professional race; — opposed to amateur.

PROFESSIONAL
Pro*fes"sion*al, n.

Defn: A person who prosecutes anything professionally, or for a livelihood, and not in the character of an amateur; a professional worker.

PROFESSIONALISM
Pro*fes"sion*al*ism, n.

Defn: The following of a profession, sport, etc., as an occupation; - - opposed to Ant: amateurism.