punctuate

verb

punc·​tu·​ate ˈpəŋk-chə-ˌwāt 

punctuated; punctuating

transitive verb

1

: to mark or divide (written matter) with punctuation marks

2

: to break into or interrupt at intervals

The steady click of her needles punctuated the silence …

—Edith Wharton

3

: accentuate, emphasize

intransitive verb

: to use punctuation marks

punctuator

ˈpəŋk-chə-ˌwā-tər 

noun

Synonyms of punctuate

• emphasize
• highlight
• stress
• feature

Examples of punctuate in a Sentence

Do you know how to punctuate a sentence correctly?

punctuated each and every word of his denial with a pound of his fist on the table

Recent Examples on the Web

Throughout the two-bedroom, one-bath apartment, midcentury furnishings and sleek appliances punctuate the interiors. —Shannon Sharpe, Architectural Digest, 18 June 2026

Inside, noble materials, pale shades, floral wallpaper and different finishes create a decor punctuated by Dior’s signature codes. —David Moin, Footwear News, 16 June 2026

The necklace is punctuated by orange fire-opal cabochons and indicolite tourmalines, concealing a diamond-pavé dial at the center. —Taylor Stoddard, Robb Report, 16 June 2026

The gala was also punctuated by the celebration of its annual PNW Alumni Hall of Fame induction and alumni awards. —Post-Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 14 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

Medieval Latin punctuatus, past participle of punctuare to point, provide with punctuation marks, from Latin punctus point

First Known Use

circa 1766, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Rhymes for punctuate

• abate
• airfreight
• await
• baseplate
• berate
• birthdate
• birthrate
• bookplate
• borate
• breastplate
• bromate
• casemate

Kids Definition

punctuate

verb

punc·​tu·​ate ˈpəŋ(k)-chə-ˌwāt 

punctuated; punctuating

1

: to mark or divide with punctuation marks

2

: to interrupt at intervals

a speech punctuated by a harsh cough