Highlight

Definition

Highlight refers to an outstanding, important, or memorable part of something. As a verb, it means to emphasize or draw attention to something, often to make it more noticeable.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhaɪˌlaɪt/
• Respelling: HYE-lyt

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈhaɪˌlaɪt/
• Respelling: HYE-lyt

Etymology

The word "highlight" originates from the combination of "high," meaning prominent or elevated, and "light," suggesting brightness or emphasis. The term was first used in the 17th century to describe areas of brightness in paintings and evolved into a general term for emphasis or prominence by the 19th century.

Derivatives

• Highlighted (verb, past tense)
• Highlighting (verb/noun)
• Highlighter (noun)
• Highlight reel (noun)
• Rehighlight (verb)

Synonyms

• Emphasize
• Feature
• Accentuate

Antonyms

• Ignore
• Overlook
• Understate

Usage

The word "highlight" is frequently used in both formal and informal contexts. For example, "The concert was the highlight of her weekend," or "He used a marker to highlight important sections of the text."

Related Terms

• Emphasis: Special importance or value given to something.
• Accent: A particular prominence or stress.
• Mark: To denote or draw attention to something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An outstanding or memorable part of something: Refers to the most notable aspect of an event, activity, or object.
  • Example: "The highlight of the trip was visiting the Eiffel Tower."
• A bright or lighter area in a visual context: Used in art or photography to describe areas of increased brightness.
  • Example: "The artist used white paint to create highlights in the portrait."

Verb

• To emphasize or draw attention to something: Refers to making something stand out or be more noticeable.
  • Example: "The speaker highlighted the key points of the presentation."
• To mark text with a bright color: Indicates using tools like a highlighter to make certain parts of a text more visible.
  • Example: "She highlighted the important dates in her calendar."