underscore

[ verb uhn-der-skawr, -skohr, uhn-der-skawr, -skohr; noun uhn-der-skawr, -skohr ]

verb (used with object)

, un·der·scored, un·der·scor·ing.

1. to mark with a line or lines underneath; underline, as for emphasis.
2. to stress; emphasize:

   The recent tragedy underscores the danger of disregarding safety rules.

noun

1. a line drawn beneath something written or printed.
2. music for a film soundtrack; background for a film or stage production.

underscore

verb

1. to draw or score a line or mark under
2. to stress or reinforce

noun

1. a line drawn under written matter

Word History and Origins

Origin of underscore¹

First recorded in 1765–75; under- + score

Example Sentences

The rapid mutation of bacteria, which can evolve in a matter of hours, underscores the urgency of a holistic approach.

From BBC

"The trends we are seeing underscore the need for targeted interventions and health policies that expand psychotherapy access to underserved groups," said Olfson.

From Science Daily

"Our findings underscore the potential of this pipeline to identify protein biomarkers that can serve as new therapeutic targets, as well as provide opportunities for drug repurposing in the fight against Alzheimer's."

From Science Daily

To top it off, the curators underscore something few are willing to acknowledge: As a technical matter, almost anyone can learn to draw and paint realistically.

From Los Angeles Times

But the use of this tactic underscores Musk's bad faith.

From Salon

Related Words

• accentuate
• highlight
• indicate
• mark
• stress