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

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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Upon entering the home, guests are greeted with an open floor plan that accentuates the expansive living area, with double French doors that allow natural light to flood the space.

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Slot was in defiant mood in the aftermath of another disappointment, going through his full range of brave faces while accentuating the positive in the face of evidence to the contrary.

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Here, it’s employed to accentuate the small-town sunniness of the place along with its buzz and sweat, emphasizing Lee’s quixotic trust in the inevitability of truth.

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Related Words

• emphasize 
• highlight 
• point up 
• underline 
• underscore