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

This refrain underscores the growing partisan divide over the legislation’s priorities, with Republicans increasingly pushing for a focus on agriculture and rural development, while Democrats emphasize addressing food insecurity and expanding nutrition assistance programs.

From Salon

This contrasts with previous studies on the topic that have more heavily emphasized the transmission of knowledge from parent to child.

From Science Daily

Cedars-Sinai also emphasized that “the recent department letter contains preliminary findings with no final conclusions or decisions.”

From Los Angeles Times

"This emphasizes the need for a therapy that can treat more severe infection," he said.

From Science Daily

Dunn emphasized that monitoring brine disposal will be essential as desalination becomes more widespread.

From Science Daily

Related Words

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