The word "profuse" (/prəˈfjuːs/) refers to something that is abundant or overflowing. The spelling of the word is derived from the Latin word "profusus," meaning "poured forth." The "pr" at the beginning of the word is pronounced as "pruh," followed by "uh" and "fyooz" for the middle and end of the word. Interestingly, the pronunciation varies slightly between American and British English, with the American pronunciation being /prəˈfyus/ and the British pronunciation being /ˈprəʊfjuːs/.
Profuse is an adjective that describes a copious, abundant, or overflowing quantity of something. It is often used to indicate a great amount or intensity of something, whether it is tangible or abstract. When describing physical things, it refers to an extensive or plentiful supply that is more than what is customary or expected. For instance, a profuse amount of sweat would suggest that someone is perspiring excessively.
It can also describe emotional or verbal expressions of intensity. A profuse apology would be one that is accompanied by great remorse and earnestness, going beyond a simple acknowledgment of one's mistake. Similarly, profuse thanks would imply an overwhelming sense of gratitude, expressed with deep sincerity and appreciation.
The term can be used to describe artistic creations as well. For instance, a profuse amount of detail in a painting refers to the artist's extensive use of intricate strokes and precision. It suggests that the artwork is rich and filled with complexity.
Overall, profuse implies a surplus or surplus of something that often surpasses what is ordinary or expected. It conveys the idea of abundance, vastness, or an intense degree of something, whether it is physical, emotional, verbal, or artistic.
Pouring forth abundantly; liberal to excess; exuberant; lavish.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "profuse" originated from the Latin word "profusus", which is the past participle of the verb "profundere". "Profundere" is a combination of the prefix "pro-" meaning "forth" or "forward", and "fundere" meaning "pour". Thus, "profusus" can be interpreted as "poured forth" or "poured out". Over time, the meaning of "profuse" extended to signify something excessive, abundant, or overflowing.