profile
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈproʊfaɪl/
KK: /ˈproʊfaɪl/
noun
Definition
A description or summary that shows the main features or characteristics of someone or something, often used in contexts like job applications or social media.
Example
She created a detailed profile for her online dating account.
Conversation
Have you seen my online profile lately?
No, I haven't checked it in a while. What did you change?
I updated my photos and added some new interests to my profile.
That sounds great! It’s always nice to keep it fresh.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
outline
representation
summary
Antonyms
obscurity
anonymity
invisibility
transitive verb
Definition
To create a drawing or representation that shows the outline or shape of something, often from the side view.
Example
The artist was asked to profile the new building for the architectural magazine.
Tense Forms
Past: profiled
Past Participle: profiled
Conversation
Did you see the new project where we have to profile different cultures?
Yeah, I heard about it! It sounds really interesting.
I think it will be fun to profile my family's background.
Root Explanation
Profile → It is derived from the Italian word 'profilo', which comes from 'pro-' (meaning forward) and 'filum' (meaning thread). The term originally referred to a drawing or representation of a person's outline or contour, as if traced by a thread moving forward along the edge.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'thread' ('filum') moving 'forward' ('pro-') to outline a shape — that's how a profile represents the outline of a person.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.