[pro.fes.sion.al] adj (ca. 1748) 1 a: of, relating to, or characteristic of a profession b: engaged in one of the learned professions c (1): characterized by or conforming to the technical or ethical standards of a profession (2): exhibiting a courteous, conscientious, and generally businesslike manner in the workplace
2. a: participating for gain or livelihood in an activity or field of endeavor often engaged in by amateurs "a ~ golfer" b: having a particular profession as a permanent career "a ~ soldier" c: engaged in by persons receiving financial return "~ football"
3: following a line of conduct as though it were a profession "a ~ patriot" -- pro.fes.sion.al.ly adv
[2]professional n (1811): one that is professional; esp: one that engages in a pursuit or activity professionally