Professing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ—ฃ๏ธ
Add to dictionary

professing

[prษ™หˆfษ›sษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

declaring belief

Professing refers to the act of openly declaring or affirming one's beliefs, opinions, or feelings. It often involves expressing a strong commitment to a particular ideology or cause, and can be used in contexts where someone is making a public statement about their values or convictions.

Synonyms

asserting, claiming, declaring.

Examples of usage

  • She is professing her love for music.
  • The scientist was professing his theories at the conference.
  • He began professing his political beliefs during the debate.
Context #2 | Verb

teaching profession

In an academic context, professing can refer to the act of teaching a subject, particularly at a college or university level. Professors or educators profess their knowledge and share it with students, guiding them through the learning process.

Synonyms

educating, instructing, teaching.

Examples of usage

  • She is professing mathematics at the university.
  • He has been professing history for over a decade.
  • The professor was professing philosophy and inspiring students.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Religion

  • In many religious contexts, professing can refer to declaring faith or beliefs openly.
  • The term 'professing faith' is often used in Christian communities during rituals like baptism.
  • Religious vows, like those taken by monks or nuns, involve a serious professing of commitment.

Education

  • Professing knowledge often refers to educators publicly imparting information or skills.
  • In universities, professors profess knowledge to students, highlighting the importance of declaring expertise.
  • Professors often profess their specializations through their research and lectures.

Psychology

  • Professing beliefs can play a significant role in an individualโ€™s identity and self-expression.
  • People often feel empowered when they openly profess their thoughts or feelings to others.
  • This act can lead to a stronger social connection, as shared beliefs can unify disparate groups.

Music & Art

  • Many artists profess their emotions through their work, conveying deep messages in paintings or songs.
  • In music, lyrics can be a form of professing personal experiences or societal issues.
  • Art movements often emerge from collective professing of new ideas and philosophies.

Origin of 'professing'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'profiteri', meaning 'to declare or acknowledge publicly'.
  • It has roots in the Middle English word 'professen', used since the 14th century.
  • The prefix 'pro-' suggests something that is public or in front of others.

The word 'professing' is derived from the Latin word 'profiteri,' which means 'to declare publicly or avow.' The roots of 'pro-' mean 'in favor of' or 'for,' and 'fateri' means 'to confess' or 'to admit.' This term has evolved through Old French, eventually making its way into Middle English by the 14th century. Historically, the term was often associated with declaring a belief or taking on a responsibility, especially in the context of religious or formal settings. Over time, it has come to encompass a broader range of meanings, including the declaration of personal beliefs, academic teaching, or asserting identities. 'Professing' not only indicates the act of making a statement but also implies the weight and credibility of the speaker's convictions, underscoring the importance of honesty and integrity in one's expressions.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,283, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.