verb

profess

pruh-FEHS

verb

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."

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 notes

In 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

professed past tense, professes singular

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Can you complete this real example?

He _____ his innocence throughout the trial.

From Old French professer, from Latin profitērī, "to declare openly," from pro- + fatērī ("to acknowledge").