Synonym Chooser

How is the word prolific distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of prolific are fecund, fertile, and fruitful. While all these words mean "producing or capable of producing offspring or fruit," prolific stresses rapidity of spreading or multiplying by or as if by natural reproduction.

a prolific writer

When is fecund a more appropriate choice than prolific?

The meanings of fecund and prolific largely overlap; however, fecund emphasizes abundance or rapidity in bearing fruit or offspring.

a fecund herd

When is it sensible to use fertile instead of prolific?

The words fertile and prolific are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, fertile implies the power to reproduce in kind or to assist in reproduction and growth; applied figuratively, it suggests readiness of invention and development.

fertile soil
a fertile imagination

How does the word fruitful relate to other synonyms for prolific?

Fruitful adds to fertile and fecund the implication of desirable or useful results.

fruitful research

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of prolific Through one of the most dominant stretches in NFL history, the most steadfast lifeline for the Chiefs has been the prolific and uncanny connection between Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. Kansas City Star, 15 Sep. 2025 Liberty picked Vasko, who wasn’t necessarily a prolific passer, out of the portal from Coastal Carolina. Antonio Morales, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2025 But a more culturally rich experience can be found at Shinta Mani Mustang, a 29-suite lodge from prolific hotel designer Bill Bensley that has floor-to-ceiling views of Nilgiri Himal, which tops 23,000 feet. Katie Lockhart, Travel + Leisure, 14 Sep. 2025 Such usage among teens is even more prolific. Beatrice Nolan, Fortune, 14 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for prolific
Recent Examples of Synonyms for prolific
Adjective
  • And that could mean fertile hunting ground for the franchising industry.
    Rob Lancit, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025
  • Combined, these economic and political pressures created fertile ground for social mobilization.
    Nir Kshetri, The Conversation, 14 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • In addition to grape stem cells, the fast-absorbing spray includes caffeine and antioxidant-rich arugula leaf extract to help keep fallout at bay.
    Sophia Panych, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025
  • Key Takeaways Chia seed pudding is rich in fiber and omega-3s, which support satiety, digestion, and heart health.
    Sohaib Imtiaz, Verywell Health, 16 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Prolific.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prolific. Accessed 17 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on prolific

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