What does profusion mean?
A profusion is a large, often impressive abundance of something. The phrase “a profusion of” can describe flowers, colours, ideas, details, or other features that appear in great quantity, usually with the suggestion that they are plentiful beyond ordinary expectation. The word can also have a mildly critical sense when it refers to excessive display: lavish decoration, exaggerated emotion, or an uncontrolled outpouring of words. In these uses, it is more formal than everyday alternatives such as “loads of” and more evaluative than a simple count. The common expression “in profusion” means “in great abundance” or “freely and in large quantities.” Although the word is most often used with concrete or visual subjects, it can also describe the abundance of ideas, praise, criticism, or other intangible things. Its formal tone makes it especially suitable for descriptive and literary prose.
nounAn abundant supply or a large quantity of something. It can also refer to an excessive or lavish display, especially of resources or emotions.
- An abundant supply or a large quantity of something.
- An excessive or lavish display of something, such as emotion, decoration, or resources.
"The garden was filled with a profusion of wildflowers."
"The market stalls offered a profusion of fresh produce and baked goods."
"Her speech was received with a profusion of enthusiastic applause."
The plural is used when referring to separate abundant quantities or displays.
"The report was followed by profusions of praise and criticism."
From the Latin for “pouring forth,” a profusion is literally an abundance that seems to overflow.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does profusion come from?
The English noun comes through French from Latin profusio, meaning “a pouring out” or “abundance.” Its ultimate source is the Latin verb profundere, formed from pro- and fundere, “to pour,” with the sense of pouring forth freely. Related English words include “profuse,” “profound,” “effusion,” and “diffuse,” all reflecting the same broader Latin root associated with pouring out or spreading.
How profusion is actually used
In British and American English, “a profusion of” is common and often conveys a sense of abundance that may be visually striking or excessive. “In profusion” is especially idiomatic for something appearing in great quantities.
Easily confused with profusion
“Profusion” is a noun meaning an abundant quantity, while “profuse” is an adjective describing something given or occurring in large amounts.