1. (Adjective)
a. Of or relating to the characteristic of
professionalism, usually applicable in medium to large corporations. A characteristic in which one is expected to put one's employer and duties thereof above family,
human dignity, and health.
b. One is is professional is monitored to ensure they are walking around with a sarcastic respect for other people in
the corporation, even when there are very real burdens on the professional person's mind.
c. A description unfairly assigned only to one who devotes more time and energy to his occupation in the company than to his marriage, family, and health.
d. The manner in which a task is performed in a company, as long as it reflects the professional qualities of the performer.
e. A WORD THAT HAS
LOST IT'S MEANING IN CORPORATE NONSENSE AND BIG-CORPORATION SYNDROME. There are still GOOD professionals out there--ones that are passionate about the good work they do and have freed themselves to do it.
2. (Noun)
a. One who is enslaved to the characteristic of professionalism in order to keep their job (see Professional - adj.)
b. One who wears fancy clothes that tell nothing of their character or skill, whether good or bad.
c. Often higher manager that treats subordinates less "professionally" than they look.
"Fred worked until 2:00AM yesterday. He's way more professional than we are!" (adj.)
"Your speech was very professional,
Arty!"
"Don't insult me!"
"Well that was
unprofessional..."
"Thank you." (adj.)
"This is our professional team of salesmen."
"No, we're people who enjoy people and exercise that on the side in the form of sales." (adj)
(Interview)
"Would you describe yourself as...professional?"
"No, and here's why. The meaning of the word pro--"
"Okay, that'll be all.
Have a nice life!"
"When I grow up, I want to be a professional!"
"No you don't Johnny, don't believe that nonsense." (noun)
"You're a real professional!"
"Thanks for the good intent, but don't ever say that again. Thanks." (noun)