underline
UHN-duh-lyn
Underline (verb) means to draw a line beneath a word or phrase for emphasis. Example: “She underlined the key terms in her notes.”
verb
1
To draw a line beneath a word or phrase for emphasis.
"She underlined the key terms in her notes."
2
To emphasize or draw attention to something.
"The report underlines the need for urgent action on climate change."
noun
1
A line drawn beneath text for emphasis.
"Add an underline to make the heading stand out."
How to use underline
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo mark text with a line underneath, or figuratively, to stress how important something is.
Common pairings
underline the importance
underline a point
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Word forms
- Plural
- underlines
- Third person singular
- underlines
- Past tense
- underlined
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She _____ the key terms in her notes.
Etymology
From under- + line.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for underline
See all rhymes for underline →Frequently asked questions
What does “underline” mean?
The word “underline” means to draw a line beneath a word or phrase for emphasis. In plain terms, to mark text with a line underneath, or figuratively, to stress how important something is.
How do you pronounce “underline”?
“Underline” is pronounced UHN-duh-lyn (/ˈʌndɚˌlaɪn/ in IPA).
How do you use “underline” in a sentence?
Here is “underline” used in a sentence: “She underlined the key terms in her notes.”
What part of speech is “underline”?
Depending on how it is used, “underline” can be a verb and a noun.
Is “underline” a common word?
“Underline” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.
How many meanings does “underline” have?
“Underline” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to draw a line beneath a word or phrase for emphasis.
