Definition of underlinenext
as in to emphasize
to indicate the importance of by giving prominent display the dean's speech underlined some of the impressive accomplishments racked up by members of the graduation class

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of underline The key thing to underline is what happens on election day in Israel is just the first stage in the process of forming a new government. — Dov Waxman, The Conversation, 29 Oct. 2026 The video, Droney’s directorial debut, was shot in Brooklyn’s Sunset Park and underlines the song’s timely call to hold onto life’s tangible matters with a cast of friends, family, and local couples captured in different phases of their life. — Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 20 Oct. 2026 At the time, leader Kim Jong un highlighted the need to equip the navy with nuclear weapons, underlining Pyongyang’s intention to strengthen its maritime deterrence capabilities. — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 16 Oct. 2026 President Donald Trump‘s appearance in Youngstown, Ohio, on Monday underlines the Mahoning Valley as a bellwether of whether Democrats can win back the white, working-class voters that have rapidly shifted away from the party in recent years. — Naomi Lim, The Washington Examiner, 14 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for underline
Recent Examples of Synonyms for underline
Verb
  • As governor, Rockefeller emphasized development of the state's infrastructure, such as roads, sewers and bridges.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 7 Nov. 2026
  • Speaking in Spanish, Leo emphasized the importance of protecting family life and delivered a pointed criticism of both laws.
    — Carrie Kahn, NPR, 7 Nov. 2026
Verb
  • The formula is acidic and built around citric acid, which helps reinforce the bonds color services weaken, and leaves hair smoother and easier to manage.
    — Valeriya Chupinina, Vogue, 4 Nov. 2026
  • Cook was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year and continued her campaign through treatment, arguing her experience would reinforce her focus on affordable care access.
    — Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 4 Nov. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Underline.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/underline. Accessed 11 Nov. 2026.

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