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

Instead of closing the door on his dream, Nolan pivoted to studying English literature at University College London, a decision he has since been credited with strengthening his screenwriting and deepening his understanding of language and metaphor. — Preston Fore, Fortune, 20 July 2026

Anchovy deepens the meat’s savory character, and Château Cantenac-Brown Margaux 2016 supplies enough acidity to manage the richness. — Noel Burgess, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026

The proposal, which was entered into review on June 13, prompted the Chamber of Mines, DR Congo’s main mining industry body, to convene an emergency meeting in Kinshasa last week over concerns the overhaul could deepen regulatory uncertainty. — Ruben Nyanguila, semafor.com, 20 July 2026

But as climate change intensifies, droughts deepen, and water restrictions kick in, growers in much of the valley are getting less water for their fields. — Ian James, Los Angeles Times, 20 July 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