Langimage
English

deepen

|deep-en|

B2

/ˈdiːpən/

increase in depth

Etymology
Etymology Information

'deepen' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'dēopan,' where 'dēop' meant 'deep.'

Historical Evolution

'dēopan' transformed into the Middle English word 'depen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'deepen.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to make deep,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to increase in depth or intensity.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to make or become deeper.

The river deepens after the rain.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 2

to increase in intensity or seriousness.

Their friendship deepened over the years.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/20 08:51