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

Claude’s training emphasized principle, virtue, and consensus truth as the basis for action. —Gideon Lewis-Kraus, New Yorker, 14 Mar. 2026

The scientists emphasized that their work focuses on fundamental research and development of wide-bandgap devices designed for top cells in tandem solar cells. —Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 14 Mar. 2026

The colorful and sophisticated accommodations emphasize comfort via squishy couches and plush bedding, and clever layouts make smart use of the space in rooms and suites alike. —Wilder Davies, Bon Appetit Magazine, 14 Mar. 2026

This official emphasized to Semafor that the US is not running similarly low on interceptors of its own. —Shelby Talcott, semafor.com, 14 Mar. 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