Depth Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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depth
[depθ ]
Definitions
in ocean exploration
The vertical measurement downward from a surface, such as the top of the water or the seafloor, usually expressed in units of distance such as feet or meters.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| depth |
Typically used to describe the measurement from the surface to the bottom of something, such as a body of water, a hole, or a container. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the complexity or thoroughness of a situation, idea, or emotion.
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| deepness |
Less commonly used than 'depth', often referring to emotional or intellectual profundity. It might suggest a more personal or subjective perspective compared to 'depth'.
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| distance |
Used to describe the amount of space between two points, whether in physical space or metaphorically in terms of relationships or differences. It emphasizes the separation aspect rather than the measurement from the top to bottom like 'depth'.
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| extent |
Refers to the amount, coverage, or range of something. It is often used in a broad sense to describe how far something reaches, the degree to which something happens, or the scale of influence or effect.
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Examples of usage
- The shipwreck was found at a depth of 200 feet.
- The submarine can dive to great depths.
- The diver explored the ocean depths.
in emotional understanding
The intensity or complexity of a feeling or emotion.
Synonyms
intensity, profoundness, sincerity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| depth |
Used to describe a physical measurement or metaphorical complexity. Often refers to the dimension from the top down or to the range of understanding or knowledge.
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| intensity |
Describes the strength or extreme degree of a particular quality, feeling, or situation. Often relates to emotions, activities, colors, and lights.
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| profoundness |
Indicates great depth of knowledge, thought, or feeling. Often used in philosophical or literary contexts to convey significant or deep meaning.
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| sincerity |
Relates to the quality of being free from pretense or deceit. It refers to genuine feelings, thoughts, or intentions.
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Examples of usage
- She was surprised by the depth of his love for her.
- The movie explored the depth of human emotions.
- He spoke with depth and sincerity.
in analysis or investigation
To delve into or explore thoroughly.
Synonyms
analyze, explore, investigate.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| depth |
Used to describe the extent or complexity of a particular subject, often in academic or intellectual settings. It implies thorough understanding and detailed examination.
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| explore |
Used when someone is looking into something new or unfamiliar, often with a sense of discovery or curiosity. It is commonly used in both literal and metaphorical contexts.
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| investigate |
Used in contexts that require a thorough examination, often related to law enforcement, journalism, or research. It implies a systematic effort to uncover facts or details, sometimes with a sense of urgency or seriousness.
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| analyze |
Commonly used in scientific, academic, or technical contexts where there is a need to break down a subject into smaller parts to understand it better. This word is often associated with a methodical approach.
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Examples of usage
- They decided to depth the issue further.
- I need to depth this matter before making a decision.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In oceanography, the depth of the ocean can reach over 36,000 feet in places like the Mariana Trench, showcasing the vastness of our planet's waters.
- Sound travels differently at various depths in the ocean, affecting marine life communication and navigation.
- The concept of depth is also important in geology, as it helps in understanding how layers of Earth are structured beneath the surface.
Literature
- Authors often use depth as a metaphor for understanding complex emotions or philosophies, suggesting that deeper insights require more reflection.
- In poetry, depth can evoke a sense of weightiness, where deeper themes relate to human experience, such as love and loss.
- Classic literature, like Dante's 'Inferno', uses depth symbolically to represent moral and existential struggles.
Art
- In visual art, artists create the illusion of depth through techniques like perspective, making a two-dimensional piece appear three-dimensional.
- Depth in photography refers to the distance between the nearest and farthest objects in a scene, crucial for achieving focus and composition.
- Sculptors manipulate depth physically by layering materials to create shadow and dimension, enhancing the viewer's experience.
Psychology
- In psychological terms, depth often relates to a person's emotional state or complexity, highlighting the intricacies of human feelings.
- Therapists may encourage individuals to explore the depth of their feelings, leading to greater self-awareness and healing.
- Studies in psychology have shown that people often view their thoughts and experiences as having varying depths, impacting how they relate to stress and resilience.
Origin of 'depth'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old English 'deop', meaning 'profound' or 'serious', indicating something that goes far beneath the surface.
- It is related to the German word 'tief', which also means deep, reflecting its roots in ancient languages.
- The concept of depth has been used in literature to explain not just physical space, but emotional and intellectual profundity since medieval times.
The word 'depth' originated from Middle English 'depte', which came from Old English 'dēop', meaning deep. The concept of depth has been essential in various fields such as oceanography, psychology, and literature. Understanding depth allows us to explore the hidden layers of the physical world and human emotions.
See also: depths.