deepen

verb

deep·​en ˈdē-pən 

deepened; deepening ˈdē-pə-niŋ 

ˈdēp-niŋ

transitive verb

: to make deep or deeper

intransitive verb

: to become deeper or more profound

Synonyms of deepen

• intensify
• enhance
• heighten
• strengthen

Examples of deepen in a Sentence

They deepened the river so that larger boats could sail through.

Age had deepened the lines in his face.

The water deepens toward the center of the river.

Her powerful words deepened our commitment to the cause.

The vacation together deepened their relationship with each other.

The mystery was deepened by her silence.

This class will deepen your understanding of economics.

Living in the country's capital had deepened her knowledge of politics.

Recent Examples on the Web

Cyber expertise cannot deepen when accountability is unclear, workloads are unmanaged and wellbeing is neglected. —Harpreet Sidhu, Fortune, 13 June 2026

Just to the west, sunset occurs as the partial eclipse deepens. —Jamie Carter, Space.com, 13 June 2026

Every new experience extends the relevance of the overall portfolio, creates new marketing moments, strengthens the value proposition for repeat visitation, and deepens the relationship guests have with the brand. —Caroline Reid, Forbes.com, 13 June 2026

The reforms, unveiled by the Cuban government this week, are being presented as a strategy to address the country's deepening economic crisis. —Ivan Taylor, CBS News, 13 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined at transitive sense

Rhymes for deepen

• cheapen
• marzipan

Kids Definition

deepen

verb

deep·​en ˈdē-pən 

deepened; deepening ˈdēp-(ə-)niŋ 

: to make or become deep or deeper