profound

adjective

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pro·found | \ prə-ˈfau̇nd

, prō- \

Definition of profound

(Entry 1 of 2)

1a : having intellectual depth and insight

b : difficult to fathom or understand

2a : extending far below the surface

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

3a : characterized by intensity of feeling or quality

b : all encompassing : complete profound sleep profound deafness

profound

noun

pro·found | \ prə-ˈfau̇nd

, prō- \

Definition of profound (Entry 2 of 2)

archaic

: something that is very deep specifically : the depths of the sea

Other Words from profound Synonyms & Antonyms Example Sentences Learn More About profound

Other Words from profound

Adjective

profoundly \ prə-ˈfau̇n(d)-lē

, prō- \ adverb

profoundness \ prə-ˈfau̇n(d)-nəs

, prō- \ noun

Synonyms & Antonyms for profound

Synonyms: Adjective

Antonyms: Adjective

Examples of profound in a Sentence

Adjective 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. See More

Recent Examples on the Web: Adjective The show demonstrates Donatello’s profound influence on other artists. — Sebastian Smee, Washington Post, 13 May 2022 Hall, who, along with his Wellfleet neighbors Jack Phillips and Hayden Walling, pioneered a new style of vernacular architecture fusing modernist innovation with a profound respect for the ancient rhythms of life by the sea. — Christoph Irmscher, WSJ, 13 May 2022 Both the most visible current classroom wars that conform to predictable political contours and the brewing battle over SEL are absolutely more profound than fake outrage. — Natalia Mehlman Petrzela, CNN, 12 May 2022 These deep thoughts can lead to profound discoveries but also spirals. — Alex Wagner, SPIN, 12 May 2022 The application of the Endangered Species Act to future water projects was of profound interest to Westlands and other agribusinesses like it, not to mention other industries Bernhardt represented as a private attorney. — Michael Hiltzik, Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2022 But Ryan’s presence might also have a profound effect on Taylor. — Joel A. Erickson, The Indianapolis Star, 11 May 2022 Tahjma feels the images on all of these promotions had a profound effect on her. — Noel Cody, Essence, 11 May 2022 Wenders said his film, despite its humble setting, will explore a profound concept. — Yuri Kageyama, ajc, 11 May 2022 See More

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.