Meaning & Definition of word "Profit"

Profit

/ˈprɒfɪt/

noun:

  • 1. A financial gain, especially the difference between the amount earned and the amount spent in buying, operating, or producing something.
    • Example: The company's profit tripled after they launched their new product line.
  • 2. The advantage or benefit gained from an action or decision.
    • Example: She realized the real profit of her hard work was the experience she gained.
  • 3. The surplus remaining after total costs are deducted from total revenue.
    • Example: Investors are primarily interested in the profit margins of their portfolios.

verb:

  • 1. To gain a financial advantage or benefit from a transaction.
    • Example: They hope to profit from their investment in real estate.
  • 2. To derive advantage or benefit from something.
    • Example: The students profited from the mentorship program by improving their skills.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'profit', from Latin 'profitum', meaning 'advantage, benefit'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

profit margin:

The difference between the cost of producing something and the price at which it is sold.

profit-sharing:

A system where employees receive a share of the profits of the company.

to turn a profit:

To begin making money from a business or investment.

Related Words

loss:

The amount of money lost in business transactions.

revenue:

The total income generated from business activities.

margin:

The difference between the cost and the selling price.

Slang Meanings of profit

Meaning: To cash in

Example Sentence: They decided to cash in on the property market.

Meaning: Making bank

Example Sentence: That investment is really making bank for me.