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

This trend underscores a growing acceptance of Trump among Hispanic voters, a demographic that has traditionally leaned Democratic. —Kristen Waggoner, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025

Lessons for the Industry Waterstones’ success underscores the importance of understanding what truly matters to consumers. —Kate Hardcastle, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025

Noun

Their decision to attend underscores a commitment to the traditions of American democracy, including the peaceful transfer of power. —Kristen Waggoner, Newsweek, 21 Jan. 2025

The shifting fortunes of Big Oil and clean energy underscore how the change in power in Washington could have a lasting and significant impact on the broader energy landscape. —Matt Egan, CNN, 17 Jan. 2025

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