accentuate

[ak-sen-choo-eyt]

verb (used with object)

accentuated, accentuating 

1. to give emphasis or prominence to.

2. to place the stress or emphasis on (a particular syllable or word) when pronouncing it or showing its pronunciation.

accentuate

/ ækˈsɛntʃʊˌeɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to stress or emphasize

Other Word Forms

• overaccentuate verb (used with object)
• reaccentuate verb (used with object)
• accentuation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of accentuate¹

First recorded in 1725–35; from Medieval Latin accentuātus intoned (past participle of accentuāre ); accent, -ate ¹

Example Sentences

I would expect the chancellor to accentuate those positives.

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But those victories, like the shutdown fight, have accentuated strategic tensions between the pragmatic and progressive, or left-wing, factions of the party.

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Their jackalling threat would only be accentuated in the wide, open spaces.

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Jelly bean flavors include green apple, blue raspberry, lemon, tangerine, and cranberry — “which each deliver just enough fruity sweetness to accentuate their accompanying jolt of sour,” per TJ’s.

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The expansive living area boasts a stunning 180-bottle wine cellar and chic overhead lighting that accentuates the open floor plan.

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Related Words

• emphasize 
• highlight 
• point up 
• underline 
• underscore