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deep

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noun

1
as in midst
the most intense or characteristic phase of something the kind of cold weather that we usually have only in the deep of winter

Synonyms & Similar Words

2
as in sea
the whole body of salt water that covers nearly three-fourths of the earth sailors exploring the farther reaches of the briny deep

Synonyms & Similar Words

3

Synonym Chooser

How is the word deep different from other adjectives like it?

The words broad and wide are common synonyms of deep. While all three words mean "having horizontal extent," deep may indicate horizontal extent away from the observer or from a front or peripheral point.

a deep cupboard
deep woods

Where would broad be a reasonable alternative to deep?

The meanings of broad and deep largely overlap; however, broad is preferred when full horizontal extent is considered.

broad shoulders

When is it sensible to use wide instead of deep?

In some situations, the words wide and deep are roughly equivalent. However, wide is more common when units of measurement are mentioned, or when applied to unfilled space between limits.

rugs eight feet wide
a wide doorway

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of deep
Adjective
Bullying is often a symptom of something deeper, like insecurity, anxiety, trauma, or difficulty regulating emotions, says Shaw. Sherri Gordon, Parents, 21 July 2025 Tequila has long been celebrated for its deep Mexican heritage and craftsmanship, but Black entrepreneurs, mixologists, and investors are now making their mark on the industry. Essence, 10 July 2025
Noun
Nexon said the number of tables at her show has nearly tripled to over 100 and is only limited by space with a waiting list at least 40 deep. Michael Salfino, New York Times, 1 May 2025 Broome, a 51 percent shooter from the floor this year, shot just 8-for-19 (42.1 percent) from the field vs. the Gators' deep, imposing frontcourt. Newsweek Staff, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for deep
Recent Examples of Synonyms for deep
Adjective
  • Her heritage instilled a profound respect for nature’s healing ability and the belief that wellness is born from compassion and a connection to the natural world.
    K.H. Koehler, USA Today, 22 July 2025
  • In 2012, Phyllis Barkman Ferrell experienced a profound irony.
    Juergen Eckhardt, Forbes.com, 22 July 2025
Adjective
  • Designed as federal programs to assist the elderly, disabled individuals and those with low income, both have grown into the largest sources of health care coverage in the country.
    Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 July 2025
  • Keep clear of puddles - Driving through puddles or low rainwater areas can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control Give ample space to large vehicles - Trucks or buses can create a water spray that diminishes visibility.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 30 July 2025
Adjective
  • Years after gaining superpowers from being bombarded by cosmic rays in space, the astronauts-turned-superheroes face a new threat when the mysterious Silver Surfer, Shalla-Bal (Julia Garner), heralds the coming of the world-devouring Galactus (Ralph Ineson).
    Brian Truitt, USA Today, 26 July 2025
  • More Miguel Rodriguez/Getty Images What's so mysterious about a team playing well?
    Jon Vankin, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 July 2025
Adjective
  • While the cloven-hoofed Maison Margiela Tabi transcended from its position as cult cool girl shoe some time ago, even the less esoteric among us are testing out the toe-accentuating and toe-baring side of fashion.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 26 July 2025
  • Other complaints get a bit more technical and esoteric and farther away from things that regular people probably care about.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 24 July 2025
Adjective
  • Automate routine monitoring, but require cross-functional review for ambiguous or high-impact alerts, providing clear explanations.
    Dr. Chiranjiv Roy, Forbes.com, 25 July 2025
  • At times, though, there’s nothing ambiguous or veiled in his work.
    Anastasia Tsioulcas, New York Times, 24 July 2025
Adjective
  • An intense pain that isn't going away There the lone doctor examined him and gave him an EKG to look at how his heart was functioning.
    Nicole Villalpando, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025
  • Sports, especially intense ones like rafting, invoke our competitive spirit.
    Shani Harmon, Forbes.com, 30 July 2025
Adjective
  • This characterization, which is usually reserved for drug cartels or mafia groups, enables the French police to deploy extensive investigative powers under French law, including wiretapping the personal devices of X employees.
    Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 21 July 2025
  • The Interview, Part One In this two-part discussion, Rockwell reflects on his extensive career and speaks to the many considerations that go into designing a restaurant.
    Sofia Perez, Forbes.com, 21 July 2025
Adjective
  • In those days, the players would travel to away games by bus up U.S. Route 81 and stop in Nocona to pick up new gloves or drop old ones off for repairs.
    Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 July 2025
  • Cristhian Paredes scored the only goal in a win over LAFC the last time out, bringing an end to its run of five away games without a victory.
    Ben Verbrugge, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Deep.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deep. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.

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