emphasize

[ em-fuh-sahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, em·pha·sized, em·pha·siz·ing.

1. to give emphasis to; lay stress upon; stress: to emphasize the eyes with mascara.

   to emphasize a point;

   to emphasize the eyes with mascara.

   Synonyms: highlight, accentuate, accent

emphasize

/ ˈɛmfəˌsaɪz /

verb

1. tr to give emphasis or prominence to; stress

Other Words From

• hy·per·em·pha·size verb (used with object) hyperemphasized hyperemphasizing
• mis·em·pha·size verb (used with object) misemphasized misemphasizing
• re·em·pha·size verb (used with object) reemphasized reemphasizing
• su·per·em·pha·size verb (used with object) superemphasized superemphasizing
• un·em·pha·siz·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of emphasize¹

First recorded in 1820–30; emphas(is) + -ize

Example Sentences

“There’s an old saying in coaching, ‘You are what you emphasize,’” he said before the Lakers played the Toronto Raptors.

From Los Angeles Times

“The thing that’s been promising is... things we emphasize, they’re really responsive,” Redick said after the win.

From Los Angeles Times

I should emphasize that slavery was the prominent exception to Black American liberals tending to favor reform over revolution.

From Salon

Betts’ expected move, which he and the team have discussed in recent weeks, will further emphasize one of the Dodgers’ biggest needs this winter: corner outfielders.

From Los Angeles Times

She doesn’t emphasize her race or her gender.

From Slate

Related Words

• accentuate
• affirm
• assert
• highlight
• indicate
• maintain
• point out
• reiterate
• repeat
• underline
• underscore