Definition

The action of drawing a line beneath a word or phrase to highlight it or show its importance.

Example

The teacher used underlining to emphasize the key points in the text.

Conversation

I really think underlining the important parts helps me study better.

Definitely! It makes everything stand out more.

Yeah, I noticed it also helps with my memory.

Same here! I always use underlining when I read.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Underlining is formed from "under-" (meaning beneath or below) and "line" (from Old English "līn", meaning a string or thread). The word refers to the act of drawing a line beneath text to emphasize it.

Memory Tip

Think of something being emphasized by being drawn 'beneath' ('under-') a 'line' — that's what underlining means.

Visually Confused Words