What does profuse mean?
Profuse means abundant, lavish, or excessive. The word is especially useful when describing a large amount of something, often an emotional or social expression such as praise, thanks, or apologies. For example, someone offering profuse apologies may be trying to make amends, while the expression can also imply that the apologies are too plentiful or overly effusive. Profuse can also describe physical quantities, as in profuse vegetation or profuse growth. Its connotation is generally more emphatic than simply abundant and may suggest excess, extravagance, or an overwhelming display. The adjective is common in formal and literary writing but equally natural in ordinary conversation.
adjectivePresent in large or excessive quantity; abundant or lavish. It can describe material quantities, emotional expressions, or apologies and other behaviors offered in great measure.
- Existing or occurring in large or excessive quantity.
- Expressing or displaying something in an overly abundant manner.
- Given or produced in lavish amounts.
"Her profuse apologies did little to ease the embarrassment."
"The speaker received profuse praise after the concert."
"The plant produced profuse growth after weeks of rain."
Profuse comes from the same idea as a faucet left running: words and feelings pour out in overwhelming abundance.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does profuse come from?
Profuse comes from the Latin adjective profusus, meaning “poured forth” or “spread out,” derived from profundere, “to pour out.” The word entered English during the early 17th century. Its development retained the idea of something being poured out in such large quantities that it seems excessive.
Related word forms
How profuse is actually used
Profuse is commonly used with abstract nouns such as praise, thanks, apologies, and praiseworthy qualities, as well as with quantities of material. It can suggest deliberate or excessive generosity, not merely abundance.
Easily confused with profuse
Profuse means abundant or excessive, whereas profound means deep, significant, or intellectually serious.