profound

adjective pro·found \ prə-ˈfau̇nd , prō- \

Updated on: 27 May 2018

Definition of profound

1 a : having intellectual depth and insight

b : difficult to fathom or understand

2 a : extending far below the surface

b : coming from, reaching to, or situated at a depth : deep-seated

a profound sigh

3 a : characterized by intensity of feeling or quality

b : all encompassing : complete

profound sleep

profound deafness

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profoundly

play \prə-ˈfau̇n(d)-lē, prō-\ adverb

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profoundness

play \prə-ˈfau̇n(d)-nəs, prō-\ noun

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Examples of profound in a Sentence

Here, for the first time, a journalist gains access to the archive of one of the most comprehensive longitudinal studies in history. Its contents, as much literature as science, offer profound insight into the human condition—and into the brilliant, complex mind of the study's longtime director, George Vaillant. —Joshua Wolf Shenk, Atlantic, June 2009
This isn't escapism, or denial of grief; it is acceptance of the facts of life, the map of profound relationship to the grief that is part of life … —Tom Piazza, Why New Orleans Matters, 2005
The status of women, though probably the most profound single difference between the two civilizations, attracted far less attention than such matters as guns, factories and parliaments. —Bernard Lewis, What Went Wrong?, 2002
Despite all the respect, it was hard not to feel a twinge of schadenfreude at O'Hara's fall from esteem, which had caused him profound bitterness. —Kingsley Amis, Memoirs, 1991
His knowledge of history is profound.
Her books offer profound insights into the true nature of courage.
the profound mysteries of outer space
a profound sense of loss
His paintings have had a profound effect on her own work.

Recent Examples of profound from the Web

Humans have had a profound impact on the prevalence of other species.

— The Economist, "A planetary census puts humans in their place," 24 May 2018
At National Geographic, Laura Parker takes a close look at the dramatic increase in our plastic production over the last half-decade and our profound global failure to properly deal with its disposal.

— michelle weber, Longreads, "Death By Tchotchke," 23 May 2018
The case showed an alarming lack of understanding of the crime of rape and highlighted how justice officials often show a profound disrespect to victims.

— katarina bergehed, Time, "Sex Without Consent Is Rape. Sweden’s Move to Recognize That Means Fewer Women Will Have to Say #MeToo," 23 May 2018
Couch and Krug are two of many Bell-Jeff coaches who made a profound difference in the lives of countless young athletes over the years.

— jeff tully, latimes.com, "Tully Talk: Recalling fond memories of Bell-Jeff," 23 May 2018
In April, 38-year-old Thomas died in his cell of profound dehydration, and the medical examiner's office classified the death as a homicide.

— bruce vielmetti, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Mother of Franklin man who died in jail sues Milwaukee County," 21 May 2018
Various times, various locations Mon 5/21: Australian Courtney Barnett utilizes familiar materials to wax profound about fear, friendship, and love.

— steve heisler, Chicago Reader, "Arts / Do This The Sea and Cake and more of the best things to do in Chicago this week," 21 May 2018
To the Europeans, Mr. Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Iran deal and impose sanctions on European companies that trade with Iran is a profound betrayal.

— walter russell mead, WSJ, "Europe Is Feeling Trumped," 21 May 2018
What better way to mark the evolution and progress of the Crown than by a Triumph of Love tiara marking that profound difference?

— stellene volandes, Town & Country, "Why Meghan Markle Should Wear Princess Margaret's Triumph of Love Tiara at Her Wedding," 17 May 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'profound.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.