deepen

[ dee-puhn ]

verb (used with or without object)

1. to make or become deep or deeper: deep:

   Larger ships will be able to navigate the river after the main channel is deepened. The shadows deepened toward late afternoon.

2. Meteorology. to decrease in atmospheric pressure:

   a deepening cyclone.

deepen

/ ˈdiːpən /

verb

1. to make or become deep, deeper, or more intense

Derived Forms

• ˈdeepener, noun

Other Words From

• deepen·er noun
• deepen·ing·ly adverb
• over·deepen verb (used with object)
• un·deepened adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of deepen¹

First recorded in 1595–1605; deep + -en ¹

Example Sentences

“SNAP is the first line of defense to address our nation’s deepening hunger crisis,” FitzSimons said.

From Salon

So the Dodgers can strengthen baseball’s best lineup, deepen their historic batting order, tighten their versatile defense, become even more exciting, more enchanting, more unbeatable.

From Los Angeles Times

By deepening our understanding of how stem cell machinery evolved, scientists may identify new ways to optimise stem cell therapies and improve cell reprogramming techniques for treating diseases or repairing damaged tissue.

From Science Daily

The partners then deepened their relationship with a national contract, according to a wrongful termination lawsuit by a former BaronHR employee.

From New York Times

Tom Herbert, director at Brimscombe Mill and co-founder of The Long Table, said the donation from the star showed "incredible support" which could "deepen our impact".

From BBC

Related Words

• aggravate
• develop
• enhance
• expand
• heighten
• increase
• intensify
• redouble
• reinforce
• strengthen