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verb

accentuate

uhk-SEHN-choo-ayt

Accentuate (verb) means to make something more noticeable or prominent; to emphasize. Example: “The dim lighting accentuated the shadows across the room.”

verb
1
To make something more noticeable or prominent; to emphasize.
"The dim lighting accentuated the shadows across the room."
"Her red lipstick accentuated her smile."

How to use accentuate

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo highlight or draw extra attention to a feature or quality.

Common pairings
accentuate the positive accentuate features

Word forms

accentuated past tense, accentuates singular

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The dim lighting _____ the shadows across the room.

Etymology

From Latin accentus (see accent) via the verb accentuare, "to add stress or emphasis to."

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for accentuate

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Frequently asked questions

What does “accentuate” mean?

The word “accentuate” means to make something more noticeable or prominent; to emphasize. In plain terms, to highlight or draw extra attention to a feature or quality.

How do you pronounce “accentuate”?

“Accentuate” is pronounced uhk-SEHN-choo-ayt (/əkˈsɛn.t͡ʃu.eɪt/ in IPA).

How do you use “accentuate” in a sentence?

Here is “accentuate” used in a sentence: “The dim lighting accentuated the shadows across the room.”

What is another word for “accentuate”?

Words with a similar meaning to “accentuate” include accent and betone.

What part of speech is “accentuate”?

“Accentuate” is a verb.

Where does the word “accentuate” come from?

The word “accentuate” comes from Latin. From Latin accentus (see accent) via the verb accentuare, "to add stress or emphasis to.".

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