accentuate

American  

[ak-sen-choo-eyt] / ækˈsɛn tʃuˌeɪt /

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.

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accentuate British  

/ ækˈsɛntʃʊˌeɪt /

verb

1. (tr) to stress or emphasize

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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

Although not quite as windy as it was on Thursday, the blustery wind will accentuate the chilly feel and the winds will be particularly squally around the showers.

From BBC

The current war accentuates rifts within Brics that have long been apparent.

From The Wall Street Journal

Tess was heavier set, with broad shoulders and bright green eyes, where her cousin Eliana was taller by a good three inches, her face a study of angles that accentuated hazel eyes.

From Literature

I was wearing my best armor: a black dress that accentuated my curves, a striped bolero to cover the arms I’ve resented for years and black platform sandals displaying ruby toes.

From Los Angeles Times

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

Related Words

• emphasize
• highlight
• point up
• underline
• underscore