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

While some newly prominent groups (such as those who later became known as Quakers) emphasized love, fellowship and justice, some members of other sects (like the Presbyterians) created new fears, new sins, new tests and new punishments. — Literary Hub, 28 Sep. 2026

Hitchcock believes that Roosevelt’s New Deal vision blended seamlessly with his war aims; both emphasized democracy, collective action, and global interdependence. — Beverly Gage, New Yorker, 28 Sep. 2026

For students with Down syndrome, who tend to be naturally more flexible and less strong, Graham emphasizes developing muscle tone. — ABC News, 28 Sep. 2026

And unlike the Mediterranean and other plant-forward diets, keto doesn’t emphasize fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which are important parts of a healthy diet. — Stephanie Anderson Witmer, HEALTH, 28 Sep. 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
• alibis
• alkalies
• alkalis
• amortize
• amplifies
• analyse
• analyze
• anywise
• authorize
• butterflies

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