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deep

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noun

1
as in midst
the most intense or characteristic phase of something the kind of cold weather that we usually have only in the deep of winter

Synonyms & Similar Words

2
as in sea
the whole body of salt water that covers nearly three-fourths of the earth sailors exploring the farther reaches of the briny deep

Synonyms & Similar Words

3

Synonym Chooser

How is the word deep different from other adjectives like it?

The words broad and wide are common synonyms of deep. While all three words mean "having horizontal extent," deep may indicate horizontal extent away from the observer or from a front or peripheral point.

a deep cupboard
deep woods

Where would broad be a reasonable alternative to deep?

The meanings of broad and deep largely overlap; however, broad is preferred when full horizontal extent is considered.

broad shoulders

When is it sensible to use wide instead of deep?

In some situations, the words wide and deep are roughly equivalent. However, wide is more common when units of measurement are mentioned, or when applied to unfilled space between limits.

rugs eight feet wide
a wide doorway

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 deep
Adjective
Driving through deep water can also affect a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems. Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 2 Aug. 2025 Mindful of the way Dave Roberts managed the Dodgers’ insanely deep bullpen through the playoffs in 2024, the Yankees (David Bednar, Jake Bird, Carlos Camilo Doval) and Mets (Ryan Helsley, Tyler Rogers) did well to horde relievers, while also adding position players at the trade deadline. Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 2 Aug. 2025
Noun
Nexon said the number of tables at her show has nearly tripled to over 100 and is only limited by space with a waiting list at least 40 deep. Michael Salfino, New York Times, 1 May 2025 Broome, a 51 percent shooter from the floor this year, shot just 8-for-19 (42.1 percent) from the field vs. the Gators' deep, imposing frontcourt. Newsweek Staff, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for deep
Recent Examples of Synonyms for deep
Adjective
  • Although these alarming trends could represent an emerging global health crisis with profound implications for public health, there is a tremendous amount of hope.
    Omer Awan, Forbes.com, 3 Aug. 2025
  • Organ donation can be a profound last gift of life.
    Thomas Engels, CNN Money, 3 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • But both companies could use a boost as consumer demand for indulgent food has been trending lower for some time.
    Jordan Valinsky, CNN Money, 30 July 2025
  • In May, the International Monetary Fund cut its 2025 growth forecast for Angola to 2.4% on concerns about the impact of lower crude oil prices on the government’s finances, as well as higher interest rates in global markets.
    Semafor Staff, semafor.com, 30 July 2025
Adjective
  • Years after gaining superpowers from being bombarded by cosmic rays in space, the astronauts-turned-superheroes face a new threat when the mysterious Silver Surfer, Shalla-Bal (Julia Garner), heralds the coming of the world-devouring Galactus (Ralph Ineson).
    Brian Truitt, USA Today, 26 July 2025
  • More Miguel Rodriguez/Getty Images What's so mysterious about a team playing well?
    Jon Vankin, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 July 2025
Adjective
  • While the cloven-hoofed Maison Margiela Tabi transcended from its position as cult cool girl shoe some time ago, even the less esoteric among us are testing out the toe-accentuating and toe-baring side of fashion.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 26 July 2025
  • Other complaints get a bit more technical and esoteric and farther away from things that regular people probably care about.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 24 July 2025
Adjective
  • Automate routine monitoring, but require cross-functional review for ambiguous or high-impact alerts, providing clear explanations.
    Dr. Chiranjiv Roy, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025
  • At times, though, there’s nothing ambiguous or veiled in his work.
    Anastasia Tsioulcas, New York Times, 24 July 2025
Adjective
  • An intense pain that isn't going away There the lone doctor examined him and gave him an EKG to look at how his heart was functioning.
    Nicole Villalpando, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025
  • SFGate notes that many dogs fear the oven due to its unusual sounds, intense heat, and especially alarms or beeping.
    Lydia Patrick, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 July 2025
Adjective
  • Pirro's appointment marks a notable shift from Martin, who lacked prosecutorial experience, to someone with extensive courtroom background.
    Adeola Adeosun, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Aug. 2025
  • Production company Salter Street Films supplemented the superb prop and costume design with extensive use of green screen and CGI.
    Chris McMullen, Space.com, 2 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Cristhian Paredes scored the only goal in a win over LAFC the last time out, bringing an end to its run of five away games without a victory.
    Ben Verbrugge, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 July 2025
  • In those days, the players would travel to away games by bus up U.S. Route 81 and stop in Nocona to pick up new gloves or drop old ones off for repairs.
    Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Deep.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deep. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

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