First Known Use: 1645
Dictionary
1profile
noun pro·file \ˈprō-ˌfī(-ə)l\
: the shape of a head or face that is seen or drawn from the side
: the shape of something that is seen against a background
: a brief written description that provides information about someone or something
Full Definition of PROFILE
1
: a representation of something in outline; especially : a human head or face represented or seen in a side view
2
: an outline seen or represented in sharp relief : contour
3
: a side or sectional elevation: as a : a drawing showing a vertical section of the ground b : a vertical section of a soil from the ground surface to the underlying unweathered material
4
: a set of data often in graphic form portraying the significant features of something <a corporation's earnings profile>; especially : a graph representing the extent to which an individual exhibits traits or abilities as determined by tests or ratings
5
: a concise biographical sketch
6
: degree or level of public exposure <trying to keep a low profile> <a job with a high profile>
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Origin of PROFILE
Italian profilo, from profilare to draw in outline, from pro- forward (from Latin) + filare to spin, from Late Latin — more at file
Synonym Discussion of PROFILE
outline, contour, profile, silhouette mean the line that bounds and gives form to something. outline applies to a line marking the outer limits or edges of a body or mass <traced the outline of his hand>. contour stresses the quality of an outline or a bounding surface as being smooth, jagged, curving, or sharply angled <a car with flowing contours>. profile suggests a varied and sharply defined outline against a lighter background <a portrait of her face in profile>. silhouette suggests a shape especially of a head or figure with all detail blacked out in shadow leaving only the outline clearly defined <photograph in silhouette against a bright sky>.
2profile
verb
: to give a brief description that provides information about (someone or something)
pro·filedpro·fil·ing
Full Definition of PROFILE
transitive verb
1
: to represent in profile or by a profile : produce (as by drawing, writing, or graphing) a profile of
2
: to shape the outline of by passing a cutter around
See profile defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of PROFILE
1715
PROFILE Defined for Kids
profile
noun pro·file \ˈprō-ˌfīl\
Definition of PROFILE for Kids
1
: something (as a head or a mountain) seen or drawn from the side
2
: a level of activity that draws attention <As an actress, she can't avoid a high profile.>
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