underline

[uhn-der-lahyn, uhn-der-lahyn, uhn-der-lahyn]

verb (used with object)

underlined, underlining 

1. to mark with a line or lines underneath; underscore.

2. to indicate the importance of; emphasize, as by stressing or italicizing.

noun

1. Printing.,  a caption under an illustration.

2. a line drawn under something; an underscore.

underline

verb

1. to put a line under

2. to state forcibly; emphasize or reinforce

noun

1. a line underneath, esp under written matter

Other Word Forms

• underlining noun
• underlineation noun
• underliner noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of underline¹

First recorded in 1715–25; under- + line ¹

Example Sentences

This summer has underlined the now-infamous schism between urban and rural Spain.

From BBC

At its best, “Downton” underlined the oppressive constructs of hierarchy and the challenges faced by those without financial and social resources, which pretty much defines those seeking the help of the Warrens.

From Los Angeles Times

There's no certainty the mother and baby would've survived if they'd been treated at the clinic, but without it, they didn't stand a chance, underlining the undeniable impact of US aid cuts in Afghanistan.

From BBC

Canada underlined their title credentials with a superb performance against Australia on Saturday.

From BBC

He underlined that the role of the police is to deal with criminality "across the board" which at times means dealing with issues that occur online.

From BBC

Related Words

• accentuate 
• highlight 
• indicate 
• point up 
• stress 
• underscore