profectio

Profectio is a Latin term that historically referred to a departure, a journey, or a setting out. In a military context, it often denoted the formal march or procession of troops from one place to another, frequently for the purpose of campaigning or deployment. This could involve the entire army moving from winter quarters to their summer positions, or a specific contingent being dispatched to a new assignment. The term implies an organized and deliberate movement rather than a spontaneous flight.

Beyond its military applications, profectio could also describe the departure of a person of importance, such as an emperor or governor, to a province or a particular region. This signified their official commencement of duties or responsibilities in that area. In legal and administrative contexts, profectio might also indicate the act of initiating a legal process or commencing an official undertaking. The core idea remains a commencement of movement or activity with a specific purpose and direction.