accentuate
Americanverb (used with object)
-
to give emphasis or prominence to.
-
to place the stress or emphasis on (a particular syllable or word) when pronouncing it or showing its pronunciation.
verb
Other Word Forms
- accentuation noun
- overaccentuate verb (used with object)
- reaccentuate verb (used with object)
Etymology
Origin of accentuate
First recorded in 1725–35; from Medieval Latin accentuātus intoned (past participle of accentuāre ); accent, -ate 1
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
But whether the arena is theater, music, science or sports, all wear garments that accentuate their emotional states and prodigious talents — and leave an enduring mark.
From Los Angeles Times
Matthew Patrick Davis accentuates with a wink the callowness of Joseph II, an emperor who perhaps sees in Mozart a reflection of his own stunted nature.
From Los Angeles Times
Upon entering the abode, guests are greeted with a large space with an open floor plan that is accentuated by the arches in the walls.
From MarketWatch
He filmed the process for TikTok, giggling at his flubs and using his hands to accentuate the rhythmic cadence of the language.
Nevertheless, “Bug” is ingeniously structured to stoke suspense, and Mr. Cromer’s impeccable production accentuates the dexterous manner by which Mr. Letts makes plausible its harrowing climax.
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
