profusion

noun

pro·​fu·​sion prə-ˈfyü-zhən 

prō-

1

: lavish expenditure : extravagance

2

: the quality or state of being profuse

3

: great quantity : lavish display or supply

snow falling in profusion

Did you know?

A profusion is literally a "pouring forth", so a profusion of gifts is a wealth or abundance of gifts. A profusely illustrated book is filled to overflowing with pictures. A bad social error should be followed by profuse apologies, and profound gratitude should be expressed with profuse thanks.

Synonyms of profusion

• loads
• plenty
• ton
• dozen
• slew
• abundance
• wealth
• bunch
• quantity
• pile
• lot
• deal
• chunk
• raft

Examples of profusion in a Sentence

The flowers grow in profusion.

apples grow in profusion in this valley

Recent Examples on the Web

Here, those extra voices vastly outnumber the two main characters, leading to a profusion of confusing subplots that stray away from the main themes. — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 18 Sep. 2026

During our time there, we were treated to a three-course chef’s tasting menu that was a paean to the summer; think a profusion of tomatoes, stone fruit, local soft cheeses, and edible flowers. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Sep. 2026

After all, the university’s magnetic pull depends on its being embedded in a global metropolis with its profusion of experts, employers, and opportunities. — Justin Davidson, Curbed, 19 Aug. 2026

In this deep perennial border, Jordin layered tough perennials that deliver a profusion of color in the height of summer, including catmint, ‘Millenium’ allium, ‘Cinderella’ milkweed, and clary sage. — Miranda Crowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1545, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for profusion

• allusion
• collusion
• conclusion
• confusion
• contusion
• delusion
• diffusion
• effusion
• exclusion
• extrusion
• illusion
• inclusion

Kids Definition

profusion

noun

pro·​fu·​sion prə-ˈfyü-zhən 

: a plentiful supply : great quantity

lilacs blooming in profusion