profiler

American  

[proh-fahy-ler] / ˈproʊ faɪ lər /

noun

1. any of several types of machine tools for reproducing shapes in metal or other materials from a master form.

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profiler British  

/ ˈprəʊfaɪlə /

noun

1. a person or device that creates a profile, esp someone with psychological training who assists police investigations by identifying the likely characteristics of the perpetrator of a particular crime

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Etymology

Origin of profiler

First recorded in 1900–05; profile + -er ¹

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

profiler

But O’Toole, the retired FBI profiler, said attackers don’t think of it that way.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 29, 2026

For 1986’s “Manhunter,” Petersen is Will Graham, a former FBI criminal profiler with an uncommon ability to understand the mindset of serial killers.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 26, 2025

This Wondery podcast, hosted by the former F.B.I. criminal profiler Candice DeLong, who also spent a decade as a psychiatric nurse, examines the case and all the systemic breakdowns that led Bardo straight to Schaeffer.

From New York Times ● Nov. 20, 2024

Additionally, the AUVs were outfitted with a chirp sub-bottom profiler that uses sound to reveal layers of sediment below the seafloor surface.

From Science Daily ● May 21, 2024

"I didn't want a profiler," lamented Mrs. Kobbe; "I wanted a full-facer."

From Vesty of the Basins by Greene, Sarah P. McLean