verb
C1
Advanced
profess
pruh-FEHS
Profess (verb) means to claim or declare something, often about oneself, sometimes insincerely. Example: “He professed his innocence throughout the trial.”
verb
1
To claim or declare something, often about oneself, sometimes insincerely.
"He professed his innocence throughout the trial."
"She professed to have no interest in the promotion."
2
To formally declare belief in a religion or set of principles.
"The monks professed their vows before the abbot."
How to use profess
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo openly claim or declare something, sometimes with a hint that it may not be fully genuine.
Common mistake
Often carries a slight suggestion of doubt — "he professed to be an expert" can imply he claims it, but may not really be one.
Common pairings
profess innocence
profess love
profess a belief
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like profess.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Third person singular
- professes
- Past tense
- professed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He _____ his innocence throughout the trial.
Etymology
From Old French professer, from Latin profitērī, "to declare openly," from pro- + fatērī ("to acknowledge").
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “profess” mean?
The word “profess” means to claim or declare something, often about oneself, sometimes insincerely. In plain terms, to openly claim or declare something, sometimes with a hint that it may not be fully genuine.
How do you pronounce “profess”?
“Profess” is pronounced pruh-FEHS (/pɹəˈfɛs/ in IPA).
How do you use “profess” in a sentence?
Here is “profess” used in a sentence: “He professed his innocence throughout the trial.”
What part of speech is “profess”?
“Profess” is a verb.
Where does the word “profess” come from?
The word “profess” comes from Latin. From Old French professer, from Latin profitērī, "to declare openly," from pro- + fatērī ("to acknowledge").
How many meanings does “profess” have?
“Profess” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to claim or declare something, often about oneself, sometimes insincerely.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include profess:
