underscore

[ verb uhn-der-skawr, -skohr, uhn-der-skawr, -skohr; noun uhn-der-skawr, -skohr ]

verb (used with object)

, un·der·scored, un·der·scor·ing.

1. to mark with a line or lines underneath; underline, as for emphasis.
2. to stress; emphasize:

   The recent tragedy underscores the danger of disregarding safety rules.

noun

1. a line drawn beneath something written or printed.
2. music for a film soundtrack; background for a film or stage production.

underscore

verb

1. to draw or score a line or mark under
2. to stress or reinforce

noun

1. a line drawn under written matter

Word History and Origins

Origin of underscore¹

First recorded in 1765–75; under- + score

Example Sentences

This evening, Yoakam played the Byrds for me to underscore his belief that Clark is a grossly underestimated songwriter.

From Los Angeles Times

But these fleeting moments of weakness underscore the character’s fragility, just as Glenn Close’s modest singing ability served her devastating portrayal of Norma Desmond in the 1994 Broadway premiere.

From Los Angeles Times

The scientists said their findings, which add to a growing body of research documenting climate change’s role in worsening droughts, underscore an urgent need to reduce planet-warming emissions while also changing water management and drought strategies to adapt to the new reality of heat-driven dry spells.

From Los Angeles Times

Google’s latest AI-powered updates underscore how the tech giant is responding to challenges to the company’s dominance in search.

From Los Angeles Times

They also underscore the only answer he’s ever uncovered in his years of asking questions.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• accentuate
• highlight
• indicate
• mark
• stress