underscore

American  

[uhn-der-skawr, -skohr, uhn-der-skawr, -skohr, uhn-der-skawr, -skohr] / ˈʌn dərˌskɔr, -ˌskoʊr, ˌʌn dərˈskɔr, -ˈskoʊr, ˈʌn dərˌskɔr, -ˌskoʊr /

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.

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noun

1. a line drawn beneath something written or printed.

2. music for a film soundtrack; background for a film or stage production.

underscore British  

verb

1. to draw or score a line or mark under

2. to stress or reinforce

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noun

1. a line drawn under written matter

Etymology

Origin of underscore

First recorded in 1765–75; under- + score

Example Sentences

That, in many respects, underscores the adaptability of American companies, which have used new technologies such as AI to improve profits while managing the increased costs from tariffs and the impact of stubbornly elevated inflation.

From Barron's

The findings point to possible health effects that extend across generations and underscore the need for human studies, particularly to understand how early-life exposure to emulsifiers may influence long-term health.

From Science Daily

A close examination of the GDP figures also underscores the narrow basis driving economic growth in recent months — it’s essentially the product of robust spending by wealthy consumers and massive corporate investments in AI technology.

From Los Angeles Times

It underscores one of Intel’s greatest weaknesses—and a nagging headwind for the stock price.

From Barron's

Over the next few years, the elections board made one critical decision after another in close or disputed elections, underscoring its importance.

From Salon

Related Words

• accentuate
• highlight
• indicate
• mark
• stress