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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
Videos verified by The Times showed people carrying victims, including children, to ambulances as fires burned in the background. Syria: Israel carried out what appeared to be one of its deepest and deadliest raids into the country. Justin Porter, New York Times, 4 Apr. 2025 The short films and imagery feature the subjects wearing pieces from the collection as each of them shares their personal connections to strength, emphasizing the connection between the new collection and Tiffany & Co.’s Northstar of deep connection to empowerment and love. Mecca Pryor, Essence, 4 Apr. 2025
Noun
But the Hard Quartet dip their four sets of lips into those waters and drink deep. Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 4 Oct. 2024 Then, in the meeting, see what resonates and dig in deep. Rodger Dean Duncan, Forbes, 17 Sep. 2024 See All Example Sentences for deep
Recent Examples of Synonyms for deep
Adjective
  • There was nothing more profound in the Padres clubhouse afterward than the usual disappointment that is present following dozens and dozens of losses in every team’s season.
    Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Apr. 2025
  • It’s best experienced within the confines of Shannon’s film, even if that ultimately means many moments of profound discomfort.
    Samantha Bergeson, IndieWire, 4 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • When camping in an open environment, select a campsite in a valley, ravine, or low region.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 1 Apr. 2025
  • Simmer on low heat for 6-7 hours with the lid mostly covering the pot but open a tiny crack.
    Vicky Hallett, NPR, 1 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The first season saw Charles eventually wrap the case and leave the nursing home to return to his life, but ended with the PI calling him again to seek his help on a mysterious new case.
    Lauren Huff, EW.com, 28 Mar. 2025
  • Despite Shauna trying to blame her for all the mysterious things happening to her in season 3, Melissa says that Shauna is the problem, the real anti-hero, so to speak.
    Stacy Lambe, People.com, 28 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • New esoteric spiritual movements had begun sweeping across Europe.
    Jay Cheshes, Smithsonian Magazine, 28 Mar. 2025
  • While the issue may seem esoteric, the impact is anything but.
    Seth Joseph, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Religion is the topic most likely to cause offense in India today, though the code is ambiguous on this point too.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 3 Apr. 2025
  • One thing that is not ambiguous is that the spirit is drawing Mia into its world a little at a time.
    Katie Rife, Vulture, 31 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The May 1945 bombing came on the heels of another intense U.S. firebombing campaign known as Operation Meetinghouse.
    Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 1 Apr. 2025
  • Ricky Steamboat From Clash Of The Champions 6 The intense rivalry between Ricky Steamboat and Flair produced some of the most celebrated matches in professional wrestling history.
    Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Iryna has over 12 years of personal experience with counseling, in addition to taking part in an extensive AI course to further enhance her knowledge of the technology.
    Emma Kershaw, Forbes.com, 5 Apr. 2025
  • Moët is one of the ‘maisons’ that is part of the LVMH Group alongside brands such as Louis Vuitton, which has enjoyed extensive trackside advertising at races this year, and TAG Heuer, the watch brand which became F1’s official timekeeping partner for the 2025 season.
    Luke Smith, New York Times, 4 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • This was the third game between the two old rivals this season, Galatasaray having won the away league fixture in September and February’s return ending in a goalless draw.
    Nick Miller, New York Times, 3 Apr. 2025
  • This party theme is especially great for away games and out-of-town tournaments.
    Maggie Griswold, StyleCaster, 1 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Deep.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/deep. Accessed 14 Apr. 2025.

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