PROFOUND


Meaning of PROFOUND in English

I. prəˈfau̇nd, prōˈ- adjective

( usually -er/-est )

Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French profond deep, from Latin profundus, from pro- before + fundus bottom — more at pro- , bottom

1.

a. : having intellectual depth : going thoroughly and penetratingly into a problem : possessing knowledge and insight

one of the most profound minds of this generation

b. : characterized by, exhibiting, or requiring for comprehension deep learning and insight : difficult to fathom or understand

are, in their meditative depths, among the few profound poems of our day — Louis Untermeyer

2.

a. : having very great depth : extending far below the surface

b. : coming from, reaching to, or situated at a depth : not superficial : deeply seated

a profound sigh

c.

(1) of a bow : made with the head or body bent low

made a profound bow to the assembled company

(2) : characterized by admiration

the most profound respect

3.

a. : characterized by intensity of emotion : deeply realized or felt

my spirit … felt a profounder fear than ever it knew — Robert Bridges †1930

have a profound sympathy — T.S.Eliot

b. : all encompassing : complete , thorough

fell into a profound sleep

c. : very deep

exerts a profound influence on legislation — S.K.Padover

Synonyms: see deep

II. noun

( -s )

: something that is very deep: as

a. : the deeps of the sea

b. : the depth of a human mind or spirit

Webster's New International English Dictionary.      Новый международный словарь английского языка Webster.