underscore

1 of 2

verb

un·​der·​score ˈən-dər-ˌskȯr 

underscored; underscoring; underscores

transitive verb

1

: to draw a line under : underline

2

: to make evident : emphasize, stress

arrived early to underscore the importance of the occasion

3

: to provide (action on film) with accompanying music

underscore

2 of 2

noun

1

: a line drawn under a word or line especially for emphasis or to indicate intent to italicize

2

: music accompanying the action and dialogue of a film

Synonyms

Verb

• accentuate
• bring out
• emphasize
• italicize
• stress
• underline

Examples of underscore in a Sentence

Verb

These failures underscore the difficulty of what we're attempting to do.

The President's visit underscores the administration's commitment to free trade.

She underscored the most important points.

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

But the thrill of the action sequences just underscores the hollowness of the rest of the enterprise. —Alison Willmore, Vulture, 11 Nov. 2024

That comparison underscores the appreciation within Dinkytown over Garcia’s decision to remain with the Gophers. —Andy Greder, Twin Cities, 8 Nov. 2024

Noun

As Galileo’s latest research underscores, 60% of consumers prefer digital-first interactions. —Derek White, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024

There was the research chemical subreddit, the drug subreddit, the opiates subreddit, the obscure drugs subreddit, and the opioid underscore RCs, meaning research chemicals subreddit. —Leah Feiger, WIRED, 17 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1771, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1901, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

underscore

verb

un·​der·​score

ˈən-dər-ˌskō(ə)r,

-ˌskȯ(ə)r

1

: to draw a line under : underline

2

: emphasize

underscore noun