deep
8 synonyms and 13 antonyms for deep, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Extending a long way down from the top or surface.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use deep
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old English dēop ("deep, profound"), from Proto-Germanic deupaz, from a Proto-Indo-European root meaning "deep."
Full origin of deep →Frequently asked questions
What does “deep” mean?
The word “deep” means extending a long way down from the top or surface. In plain terms, going a long way down, or figuratively, something profound, rich, or intense.
How do you pronounce “deep”?
“Deep” is pronounced deep (/diːp/ in IPA).
How do you use “deep” in a sentence?
Here is “deep” used in a sentence: “The lake is surprisingly deep near the middle.”
What is the opposite of “deep”?
The opposite of “deep” — its antonyms — are shallow, frivolous, superficial, light and thin.
What part of speech is “deep”?
Depending on how it is used, “deep” can be an adjective, an adverb and a noun.
Where does the word “deep” come from?
The word “deep” comes from Old English. From Old English dēop ("deep, profound"), from Proto-Germanic deupaz, from a Proto-Indo-European root meaning "deep.".
Is “deep” a common word?
“Deep” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “deep” have?
“Deep” has 6 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: extending a long way down from the top or surface.
What is the opposite of deep?
The opposite of deep is shallow — not extending far down from the surface. A shallow pool reaches only a little way down, while a deep one goes far. Figuratively, "deep" (profound, serious) contrasts with "shallow" (superficial). In both the literal and the figurative sense, shallow is the standard antonym.
What is the difference between deep and shallow?
Deep describes something that extends a long way down from the top or surface, like a deep lake or a deep hole. Shallow is the reverse, reaching only a short distance down. The two words sit at opposite ends of the same scale, measuring how far something goes beneath its surface.
Does deep only describe water?
No. While "deep" often describes water, it applies to anything extending far from its surface or edge — a deep drawer, a deep wound, deep snow, or a deep forest. It also has figurative uses, such as deep thought, a deep voice, or deep sleep, all suggesting intensity or something far below the surface.
What is an example of deep?
A deep swimming pool is one where the bottom is far below the surface, so you cannot touch it. Other examples include a deep well, a deep cut in wood, or the deep end of the ocean. In each, the distance from the surface downward is large — the core meaning of the word.