emphasize

verb

em·​pha·​size ˈem(p)-fə-ˌsīz 

emphasized; emphasizing

transitive verb

: to place emphasis on : stress

emphasized the need for reform

Synonyms

• 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

As represented by Camus, absurdism emphasizes accepting the absurdity of life and finding joy without illusions, often through gallows humor. —Big Think, 25 Sep. 2025

Jakab said that these institutional presentations mark a milestone for the event’s program for both the students and the larger fashion industry, as the events promoted multidisciplinary collaboration and emphasized stronger ties between the schools and professional spaces. —Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 25 Sep. 2025

Use tone to emphasize important details. —Jd Barker, Rolling Stone, 25 Sep. 2025

Lucas made that effort clear, emphasizing in the statement to The Star that his main objective was to repeal the map and return Cleaver to Congress. —Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 25 Sep. 2025

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