highlighting

American  

[hahy-lahy-ting] / ˈhaɪˌlaɪ tɪŋ /

noun

1. a hair dyeing technique in which dye is applied to parts of the hair for a naturally lighter and contrasting appearance.

2. a makeup application style in which a cosmetic powder or cream is applied to the face in places where light would naturally hit, as the cheeks, forehead, chin, and center of the nose, to create a glowing effect.

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Etymology

Origin of highlighting

First recorded in 1955–60; highlight ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

Conflict in the Middle East has pushed up oil prices in recent weeks, highlighting the risks of dependence on fossil fuels and bringing questions of energy security back into focus.

From BBC • Apr. 24, 2026

They praised the "emotional depth" of Freije's work, highlighting its "unique sculptural vocabulary of materials and forms, as well as the haunting and expressive way she transformed the space through her arrangement of figures".

From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026

Antitrust officials said the way providers in the program are presented on the company’s platform, combined with claims by Booking.com highlighting their quality, might mislead users into booking more expensive accommodation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 22, 2026

Jefferies shared a list of “global income darlings” on Tuesday, highlighting companies that offer mid-single digit percentage dividend yields.

From Barron's • Apr. 21, 2026

The moment we entered, a spotlight took turns highlighting each piece of equipment on the racks of the curved walls, while a narrator’s voice gave a detailed description.

From "Sir Fig Newton and the Science of Persistence" by Sonja Thomas