plural highlights
1
: something (such as an event or a detail) that is very interesting, exciting, or important : the best part of something
I missed the game, but I saw the highlights on the evening news.
The jazz concert was the highlight [=high point] of our trip.
2
: a light spot or area
brown hair with (natural) gold highlights
She added highlights to her hair. [=she dyed parts of her hair a lighter color than the rest]
(technical) the highlights of a photograph/picture/painting
highlights; highlighted; highlighting
1
a
: to make or try to make people notice or be aware of (someone or something) : to direct attention to (someone or something)
Unfortunately, the media insisted upon highlighting his troubled past.
The speech highlighted [=emphasized] the importance of improving education in rural communities.
b
: to be a very interesting, exciting, or important part of (something)
Our trip was highlighted by a great jazz concert we attended.
2
: to mark (something, such as text) with a bright color
The students highlighted important vocabulary words in their textbooks.
Important names and dates in each chapter are highlighted.
(computers) Use your mouse to highlight the text that you want to revise.
Cite this Entry
“Highlight.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/highlight. Accessed 17 Apr. 2026.
Copy Citation
