Which word describes someone with a profound understanding of various subjects?

The term 'erudite' is used to describe an individual who possesses extensive knowledge and profound understanding across a wide range of subjects. This word is derived from the Latin 'eruditus,' meaning 'instructed' or 'learned,' capturing the idea of someone who has invested time and effort into gaining a deep, scholarly comprehension of various fields. Such a person is often well-read and exhibits intellectual depth, making 'erudite' the most fitting choice in this context.

In contrast, 'ignorant' refers to a lack of knowledge or awareness, which is the opposite of having profound understanding. 'Perfunctory' describes actions done with minimal effort or care, lacking depth or thoroughness. Lastly, 'dolorous' pertains to being filled with or expressing sorrow or grief, and does not relate to knowledge or understanding at all. Thus, 'erudite' stands out as the most appropriate word to describe someone with a comprehensive grasp of multiple subjects.