I. prə-ˈfau̇nd, prō- adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French parfunt, profond deep, from Latin profundus, from pro- before + fundus bottom — more at pro- , bottom
Date: 14th century
1.
a. : having intellectual depth and insight
b. : difficult to fathom or understand
2.
a. : extending far below the surface
b. : coming from, reaching to, or situated at a depth : deep-seated
a profound sigh
3.
a. : characterized by intensity of feeling or quality
b. : all encompassing : complete
profound sleep
profound deafness
• pro·found·ly -ˈfau̇n(d)-lē adverb
• pro·found·ness -ˈfau̇n(d)-nəs noun
II. noun
Date: 1621
archaic : something that is very deep ; specifically : the depths of the sea