deepen

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verb deep·en \ˈdÄ“-pÉ™n\

: to become or to cause (something) to become deep or deeper

: to become or to cause (something, such as a feeling or emotion) to become stronger or more powerful

: to make (your knowledge, understanding, etc.) fuller or more complete

deep·eneddeep·en·ing \ˈdÄ“-pÉ™-niÅ‹, ˈdÄ“p-niÅ‹\

Full Definition of DEEPEN

transitive verb

:  to make deep or deeper

intransitive verb

:  to become deeper or more profound

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Examples of DEEPEN

1. They deepened the river so that larger boats could sail through.
2. Age had deepened the lines in his face.
3. The water deepens toward the center of the river.
4. Her powerful words deepened our commitment to the cause.
5. The vacation together deepened their relationship with each other.
6. The mystery was deepened by her silence.
7. This class will deepen your understanding of economics.
8. Living in the country's capital had deepened her knowledge of politics.

First Known Use of DEEPEN

1598

Related to DEEPEN

Synonyms

accentuate, amp (up), amplify, beef (up), boost, consolidate, intensify, enhance, heighten, magnify, redouble, step up, strengthen

Antonyms

abate, moderate

Related Words

broaden, enlarge, expand, extend, lengthen; accelerate, hasten, quicken; emphasize, point (up), sharpen, stress; augment, enforce, reinforce (also reenforce), restrengthen, supplement; maximize; enliven, jazz (up); aggravate, exacerbate

Near Antonyms

decrease, diminish, lessen, let up (on), reduce, subdue, tone (down), weaken; dwindle, recede, subside, taper (off), wane; alleviate, ease, lighten

Rhymes with DEEPEN

cheapen, steepen