noun (n)

• the body of people in a learned occupation(noun.group)

  Example:
  The news spread rapidly through the medical profession.
  

  source: wordnet30
• an occupation requiring special education (especially in the liberal arts or sciences)(noun.act)

  source: wordnet30
• an open avowal (true or false) of some belief or opinion(noun.communication)

  Example:
  A profession of disagreement.
  

  Synonym:
  professing
  

  source: wordnet30
• affirmation of acceptance of some religion or faith(noun.communication)

  Example:
  A profession of Christianity.
  

  source: wordnet30
• The act of professing or claiming; open declaration; public avowal or acknowledgment; as, professions of friendship; a profession of faith.(noun)

  source: webster1913