underscore

Pluralunderscores

Formsunderscores, underscoring, underscored

1. 1
   nouncountable

   A short line placed under written words, or the _ symbol on a keyboard.

   Like a tiny flat line lying down under a word.

   She added an underscore beneath the title to make it stand out.

   File names often use an underscore instead of a space.

   Similarunderline

   Note
2. 2
   verbtransitive

   To make something seem more important by pointing it out clearly.

   Like drawing a big circle around the most important word.

   Her speech helped underscore the need for clean drinking water.

   These numbers underscore how serious the problem has become.

   Similaremphasize, highlight, stress, underline, accentuate

   Oppositedownplay, minimize, understate

3. 3
   verbtransitive

   To draw a line under written words.

   Please underscore the words you don't understand.

   He underscored the date on his calendar so he would not forget the meeting.

   Similarunderline

   Note
4. 4
   nouncountable

   Quiet music played behind the action in a film, show, or game.

   Like the gentle music you hear under a sad scene in a movie.

   The film's underscore made the chase feel much more exciting.

   A soft underscore played during the love scene.

   Similarscore, accompaniment, soundtrack

   Note

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