underscore

[uhn-der-skawr, -skohr, uhn-der-skawr, -skohr, uhn-der-skawr, -skohr]

verb (used with object)

underscored, underscoring 

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

Former Rep. Katie Porter’s gubernatorial prospects are uncertain in the aftermath of the emergence of two videos that underscore long-swirling rumors that the Irvine Democrat is thin-skinned and a short-tempered boss.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The study also underscores the role of psychological, emotional, and social wellness in overall quality of life.

Read more on Science Daily

The dispute underscores a clash of two very different cultures.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

It was a point further underscored in emails between Apple executives that were made public as part of the Google litigation.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Ogretmen's group has already filed a patent for this discovery, underscoring its potential as a new class of therapy.

Read more on Science Daily

Related Words

• accentuate 
• highlight 
• indicate 
• mark 
• stress