profusion

noun

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

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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.

Synonyms of profusion

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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.
In addition to the restaurant and bars, there’s a rooftop pool surrounded by sunny yellow fringed umbrellas, comfy daybeds, and a profusion of plants. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Oct. 2026 Other rubellites were carved into a profusion of leaves and rested on a sketch of their potential arrangement as a bracelet. — Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 18 Oct. 2026 The profusion of tarot, crystals, astrology, talismans, and other permutations of spirituality has all drifted mainstream in recent years. — Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 16 Oct. 2026 That same barbecue sauce is served with a gargantuan chicken cutlet sheathed in a crunchy golden crust of gluten-free panko crumbs and a profusion of sesame seeds. — Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 15 Oct. 2026 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

Rhymes for profusion

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Browse Nearby Words

profuseness
profusion
profusive
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Cite this Entry

“Profusion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/profusion. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

profusion

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