Collins English-English Dictionary

profit ['prɒfɪt]

1. 1. n [often plural] excess of revenues over outlays and expenses in a business enterprise over a given period of time, usually a year

2. 2. n the monetary gain derived from a transaction

3. 3. n income derived from property or an investment, as contrasted with capital gains

4. 4. n the ratio of this income to the investment or principal

5. 5. n [Economics] the income or reward accruing to a successful entrepreneur and held to be the motivating factor of all economic activity in a capitalist economy

6. 6. n (as modifier)

   the profit motive

7. 7. n a gain, benefit, or advantage

8. 8. vb to gain or cause to gain profit

9. 9. vb [Etymology] C14: from Latin profectus advance, from proficere to make progress; see proficient