emphasize

verb

em·​pha·​size ˈem(p)-fə-ˌsīz 

emphasized; emphasizing

transitive verb

: to place emphasis on : stress

emphasized the need for reform

Synonyms of emphasize

• highlight
• feature
• stress

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

Rooms emphasize the history – plenty of velvet, iron, wood, particularly in the suites, where design elements take their cues from Italian opera boxes. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Feb. 2026

The kitchens emphasize fresh ingredients and generous portions, with options including vegetarian plates and seafood specialties such as mariscos landia and camarones al mojo de ajo. —Staff Report, Louisville Courier Journal, 21 Feb. 2026

Kerr believed that rearranging the team’s positioning and emphasizing spacing even without Curry was at the top of his to-do list. —Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 21 Feb. 2026

Authorities emphasized that emergency personnel may need to use snow machines, aircraft and even explosives during the operations. —Bonny Chu , Michael Sinkewicz, FOXNews.com, 20 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

emphas(is) + -ize

First Known Use

1793, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing emphasize

• de-emphasize
• re-emphasize

Rhymes for emphasize

• advertise
• aggrandize
• agonize
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize

Kids Definition

emphasize

verb

em·​pha·​size ˈem(p)-fə-ˌsīz 

emphasized; emphasizing

: to place emphasis on : stress as being important or so as to stand out