underscore

1 of 2

verb

un·​der·​score ˈən-dər-ˌskȯr 

underscored; underscoring; underscores

transitive verb

1

: to draw a line under : underline

2

: to make evident : emphasize, stress

arrived early to underscore the importance of the occasion

3

: to provide (action on film) with accompanying music

underscore

2 of 2

noun

1

: a line drawn under a word or line especially for emphasis or to indicate intent to italicize

2

: music accompanying the action and dialogue of a film

Synonyms of underscore

Verb

• emphasize
• reinforce

Examples of underscore in a Sentence

Verb

These failures underscore the difficulty of what we're attempting to do.

The President's visit underscores the administration's commitment to free trade.

She underscored the most important points.

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

The experience not only highlights the uniqueness of the W16 but also underscores the immense forces that allow the Mistral to reach nearly 300 mph with the top down—a mind- (and wind-) blowing feat that cements it as the fastest roadster on the planet. —Robb Report Contributors, Robb Report, 26 Dec. 2025

Still, the album underscores Chilean reggaetón’s rising presence in the global urban music scene. —Sigal Ratner-Arias, Billboard, 26 Dec. 2025

Noun

Follow Ella's studies and adventures on Instagram at Ella underscore Alshamahi. —Outside Online, 12 Nov. 2025

Composer duo Blitz//Berlin crafted a pulse-pounding musical underscore. —Bear McCreary, HollywoodReporter, 7 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1770, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1901, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for underscore

• albacore
• alongshore
• antiwar
• anymore
• blastopore
• carnivore
• commodore
• dinosaur
• evermore
• furthermore
• guarantor
• herbivore

Kids Definition

underscore

verb

un·​der·​score

ˈən-dər-ˌskō(ə)r, 

-ˌskȯ(ə)r

1

: to draw a line under : underline

2

: emphasize

underscore noun