underscore

1 of 2

verb

un·​der·​score ˈən-dər-ˌskȯr How to pronounce underscore (audio)
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
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 See all Example Sentences for underscore 

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1771, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1901, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of underscore was in 1771

Dictionary Entries Near underscore

Cite this Entry

“Underscore.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underscore. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

underscore

verb
un·​der·​score
ˈən-dər-ˌskō(ə)r,
-ˌskȯ(ə)r
1
: to draw a line under : underline
2
underscore noun

More from Merriam-Webster on underscore

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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