Emphasis
/ˈɛmfəsɪs/noun
Special importance or significance placed on something.
Did you know?In ancient Greek, 'emphasis' was related to the act of bringing something into existence through the power of speech, linking language to manifestation.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἔμφασις (emphasis)
“A declaration or expression that brings something to light.”
Late Latin
Latin
emphasis
“The stressing or highlighting of something in speech.”
14th Century
Middle English
emphase
“The importance or prominence given to certain words or phrases.”
Modern English
English
emphasis
“The special stress or significance placed on a particular word or idea.”