Deep
/diːp/
Definitions
3 meaningsExtending far down from the surface; of considerable depth.
/diːp/
Extending far down or far back from the top or surface.
The ocean is incredibly deep.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're in a swimming pool. Deep means the water goes down really far. It can also mean something like a secret feeling or a really big problem.
👶 For kids: Going down a long way. Like a swimming pool that's deep so you can't touch the bottom!
More Examples
He took a deep breath before diving.
The well was deep and dark.
How It's Used
"The lake is very deep."
"She has a deep love for her family."
Of a low or great emotional, intellectual, or spiritual depth.
/diːp/
Profound or intense.
The book offered a deep analysis of society.
💡 Simply: It's like when you feel something really strongly – not just a little bit. Like if you're really, really sad, or if you think about something really, really hard.
👶 For kids: Feeling something a lot, like being super sad or super happy!
More Examples
They shared a deep connection.
She felt deep regret for her actions.
How It's Used
"He has a deep understanding of human nature."
"She felt a deep sadness."
A deep or low place; the deepest or most inward part of something.
/diːp/
A deep place or part of something.
They explored the deeps of the ocean.
💡 Simply: It's the very deepest part of something. Like the bottom of the ocean, or when you're really thinking hard – you're in the "deeps" of your thoughts.
👶 For kids: The deepest part of something, like the bottom of the ocean.
More Examples
She was lost in the deep of her memories.
The wreck lay in the deep of the sea.
How It's Used
"The deeps of the ocean are unexplored."
"Lost in the deeps of thought."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
in deep water
In serious trouble or difficulty.
"After breaking the law, he was in deep water with the authorities."
go deep
To explore something in detail, to become very involved.
"Let's go deep into this research topic."
a deep sleeper
Someone who sleeps soundly and is not easily woken.
"He's a deep sleeper; it's hard to wake him up."
From Old English *dēop*, from Proto-Germanic *deupaz*, ultimately from Proto-Indo-European *dʰewbʰ- ('deep, hollow').
The word 'deep' has been used since Old English times, and its usage has largely remained consistent in its core meaning of significant depth or intensity.
Memory tip
Imagine digging a hole – the deeper you dig, the more of the earth is below you.
Word Origin
"To be profound, extensive, or far down."