profusion

noun

pro·​fu·​sion prə-ˈfyü-zhən How to pronounce profusion (audio)
prō-
1
: lavish expenditure : extravagance
2
: the quality or state of being profuse
3
: great quantity : lavish display or supply
snow falling in profusion

Did you know?

A profusion is literally a "pouring forth", so a profusion of gifts is a wealth or abundance of gifts. A profusely illustrated book is filled to overflowing with pictures. A bad social error should be followed by profuse apologies, and profound gratitude should be expressed with profuse thanks.

Examples of profusion in a Sentence

The flowers grow in profusion. apples grow in profusion in this valley
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
From the amuse-bouche to the appetizers, and from the moment the waitstaff lifts the silver domes from the entrées in unison, every dish offers a profusion of delightful flavors presented with artistry and flair. Irene S. Levine, Forbes.com, 23 July 2025 In this deep perennial border, Jordin layered tough perennials that deliver a profusion of color in the height of summer, including catmint, 'Millenium' allium, 'Cinderella' milkweed, and clary sage. 2. Miranda Crowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 July 2025 Thanks to their profusion of blooms, zinnias make great plants for beginning gardeners. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 7 June 2025 The profusion of memes turned Harambe into a sort of internet folk hero, but Vance is no innocent zoo animal; the images of the Vice-President function more like voodoo dolls, casting vengeful spells from afar. Kyle Chayka, The New Yorker, 26 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for profusion

Word History

First Known Use

1545, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of profusion was in 1545

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Profusion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/profusion. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

profusion

noun
pro·​fu·​sion prə-ˈfyü-zhən How to pronounce profusion (audio)
: a plentiful supply : great quantity
lilacs blooming in profusion

More from Merriam-Webster on profusion

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!