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 In the wake of Nancy’s murder, Mary discovers evidence of the affair, including a poem that Howard had previously written — with a particular phrase underlined — in the scrapbook that Nancy left behind and a ring belonging to Nancy hidden in Howard’s closet. Max Gao, Variety, 29 Apr. 2026 Powell's decision to remain as a Fed governor underlines his commitment to preserving the central bank's independence, noted Bankrate financial analyst Stephen Kates. Aimee Picchi, CBS News, 29 Apr. 2026 Their 112-108 overtime victory over the Houston Rockets in Game 3 gives them a 3-0 series lead and underlined how much the players believe in one another. Los Angeles Times, 25 Apr. 2026 Europe sought to wean itself off Russian energy after the Ukraine conflict, but its dependence on hydrocarbons was underlined by the war in the Middle East. Vladimir Isachenkov, Fortune, 23 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for underline
Recent Examples of Synonyms for underline
Verb
  • Cavender, meanwhile, focused on fiscal discipline, public safety resources and neighborhood quality, while Crow emphasized affordability and community engagement in budget decisions.
    Sergio Candido, CBS News, 3 May 2026
  • Rather than steering young people exclusively toward high-paying technical fields like computer science, a growing number are emphasizing the long-term value of skills often associated with a humanities or liberal arts education.
    Preston Fore, Fortune, 3 May 2026
Verb
  • Bias asks whether the system perpetuates, amplifies, or introduces systematic disadvantage, including through feedback loops where biased outputs reinforce biased inputs.
    Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Fortune, 2 May 2026
  • Officials stated the goal is to give drivers time to adjust and reinforce safe behavior around school buses.
    Ivan Taylor, CBS News, 2 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Underline.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/underline. Accessed 5 May. 2026.

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