Part 571

2. (Mech.) To shape the outline of an object by passing a cutter around it.

Profiling machine, a jigging machine.

Pro"fil*ing, n. (Fort.) In the construction of fieldworks, the erection at proper intervals of wooden profiles, to show to the workmen the sectional form of the parapets at those points.

Pro"fil*ist, n. One who takes profiles.

Pro"fit (?), n. [F., fr. L. profectus advance, progress, profit, fr. profectum. See Proficient.] 1. Acquisition beyond expenditure; excess of value received for producing, keeping, or selling, over cost; hence, pecuniary gain in any transaction or occupation; emolument; as, a profit on the sale of goods.

Let no man anticipate uncertain profits.

Rambler.

2. Accession of good; valuable results; useful consequences; benefit; avail; gain; as, an office of profit,

This I speak for your own profit.

1 Cor. vii. 35.

If you dare do yourself a profit and a right.

Shak.

Syn. -- Benefit; avail; service; improvement; advancement; gain; emolument.

Prof"it, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Profited; p. pr. & vb. n. Profiting.] [F. profiter. See Profit, n.] To be of service to; to be good to; to help on; to benefit; to advantage; to avail; to aid; as, truth profits all men.

The word preached did not profit them.

Heb. iv. 2.

It is a great means of profiting yourself, to copy diligently excellent pieces and beautiful designs.

Dryden.

Prof"it, v. i. 1. To gain advantage; to make improvement; to improve; to gain; to advance.

I profit not by thy talk.

Shak.

2. To be of use or advantage; to do or bring good.

Riches profit not in the day of wrath.

Prov. xi. 4.

Prof"it*a*ble (?), a. [F. profitable.] Yielding or bringing profit or gain; gainful; lucrative; useful; helpful; advantageous; beneficial; as, a profitable trade; profitable business; a profitable study or profession.

What was so profitable to the empire became fatal to the emperor.

Arbuthnot.

-- Prof"it*a*ble*ness, n. -- Prof"it*a*bly, adv.