rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryprofileDescription of characteristics
noun / verb

profile

PROH-fyle/ˈprəʊfaɪl/

A description of someone's identifying characteristics.

The tablet's profile summarizes the woman's work, leisure activity, and pet.

A compact pictorial profile on a tablet: one woman's portrait accompanied by three small, concrete glimpses of her work, leisure activity, and pet.
Etymology
proItalianforth
+fileItaliandraw out, spin

“Forth” and “draw out” combine in the idea of drawing an outline. A profile developed from a visual outline into a written sketch presenting the main features of its subject.

In context

Self Made Millennial2:38
I saw the different cities you've lived in on your LinkedIn profile.
5 Clever Virtual Interview Tips According to Psychology - Ace that Zoom!

More examples

  • The company's profile lists its main products and markets.
  • Each week, the newspaper profiles a local business owner.
  • Officers must not profile drivers based on race.

Forms

profile · profiles · profiled · profiling

Similar words

portrait
Often gives a more vivid, interpretive account of someone's personality.
biography
Recounts someone's life history rather than highlighting main characteristics.
sketch
Emphasizes a brief account with only the broadest details.