subs. phr. (common).—A spade; cf. old saw: ‘When Adam delved and Eve span, Who was then the gentleman?’ Hence ADAM’S PROFESSION = spade work (i.e., gardening).
1602. SHAKESPEARE, Hamlet, v. 1. There is no ancient gentlemen but gardeners, ditchers, and grave-makers: They hold up ADAM’S PROFESSION. He was the first that ever bore ARMS.
