English Reference
Adjective

professed

adj.
C1 Advanced US /pɹəˈfɛst/ UK /pɹəfˈɛst/ pro·fessed

adj.describing a belief or feeling that someone says they have, even if it might not be true. You use this when someone claims something publicly.

adj.claimed or asserted openly, often in a way that implies the speaker's doubt about the sincerity of the claim. Typically used attributively before a noun.


SIMPLE

He repeated his professed love for the country.

CONTEXTUAL

Despite her professed interest in environmental issues, she rarely participated in the local recycling initiatives.

COMPLEX

The diplomat's professed neutrality was called into question when leaked documents revealed a series of private meetings with one of the primary combatants.

Usage

Often used to signal skepticism; typically precedes the noun it modifies.

New Glenn is therefore offline at least until the end of 2026, and despite the company’s professed optimism about returning to flight rapidly, probably into the early months of 2027.

Ars Technica· 17 Aug 2026

On one occasion, Schiller alleged that the dog professed its Catholic faith to a priest.

Phys.org· 27 Aug 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated