emphasize

verb

em·​pha·​size ˈem(p)-fə-ˌsīz How to pronounce emphasize (audio)
emphasized; emphasizing
Synonyms of emphasize

transitive verb

: to place emphasis on : stress
emphasized the need for reform

Examples of emphasize in a Sentence

supermarket tabloids that emphasize sensational news stories that huge belt buckle only emphasizes his big gut
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The overall effect was magical; the pristine white of the orbs and the robed created a sheer background that further emphasized the already bright spectacle of the dancing, leaping players and the beasts alongside them. Literary Hub, 20 May 2026 The scientists emphasized that offshore floating solar is emerging as an attractive option for densely populated or land-constrained countries. Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 19 May 2026 In a post on X, Obama emphasized the growing national focus on state high courts and their role in shaping major issues, including voting rights and reproductive freedom. CBS News, 19 May 2026 Company leadership and investors emphasize that operating physical retail without real-time intelligence in 2026 is equivalent to leaving billions of dollars on the table. Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 19 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for emphasize

Word History

Etymology

emphas(is) + -ize

First Known Use

1793, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of emphasize was in 1793

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Emphasize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/emphasize. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

emphasize

verb
em·​pha·​size ˈem(p)-fə-ˌsīz How to pronounce emphasize (audio)
emphasized; emphasizing
: to place emphasis on : stress as being important or so as to stand out

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