emphasize

verb

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

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.
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 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 16 Mar. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on emphasize

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