profound
UK: /prəˈfaʊnd/ | US: /prəˈfaʊnd/
adj. having deep meaning or significance
adj. intense or far-reaching in effect
adj. (archaic) extending far downward
The word "profound" originates from Latin profundus, combining pro- ("forward") and fundus ("bottom"). It originally described physical depth (e.g., a deep pit) but evolved metaphorically to describe intellectual or emotional depth by the 14th century. The shift reflects how physical concepts often abstract into mental or spiritual domains in language.
Her speech had a profound impact on the audience.
The book explores profound questions about human existence.
He fell into a profound sleep after the long journey.
The ocean's profound depths remain largely unexplored.
Their friendship was based on profound mutual respect.