ENGLISH
REFERENCE

highlight

v. · n.
US //ˈhaɪˌɫaɪt// UK //hˈaɪlaɪt// high·light
  1. 1 to emphasize (v.)
    B1 Intermediate Academic

    to draw special attention to something important.

    to make something prominent or to emphasize a specific point within a broader context.

    Example

    The report highlights the need for better security in the office.

    Example

    The keynote speaker chose to highlight the discrepancy between the projected revenue and the actual quarterly earnings.

    Usage

    Often used in academic or professional writing to introduce a key finding.
  2. 2 to mark text (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    to mark words in a book or on a screen with a bright colour.

    to mark passages of text with a different colour, typically using a fluorescent pen or digital tool, for later reference.

    Example

    I highlighted the most important dates in my history textbook.

    Example

    Students are encouraged to highlight key terminology while reading the primary source material to facilitate easier review before the examination.
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  1. 3 to dye hair (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to dye small parts of your hair a lighter colour.

    to dye specific strands of hair a different, usually lighter, colour than the rest.

    Example

    She decided to highlight her hair for the summer.

    Example

    The stylist suggested highlighting the front sections to frame her face more effectively.
  2. 4 the best part (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    the most exciting or important part of an event.

    the most significant, interesting, or memorable detail or event within a period of time.

    Example

    The highlight of our trip was seeing the Grand Canyon at sunset.

    Example

    The documentary provides a fascinating look at the highlights of the artist's career, from her early sketches to her final masterpieces.
    • low point
  3. 5 bright spot in art (n.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Science

    a very bright or light spot in a photo or painting.

    an area of high luminous intensity in an image, drawing, or photograph.

    Example

    The artist used white paint to create a highlight on the glass bottle.

    Example

    The photographer adjusted the exposure to prevent the highlights on the water's surface from becoming overexposed and losing detail.
  4. 6 coloured hair strands (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    lighter or different coloured streaks in someone's hair.

    strands of hair that have been tinted or bleached to contrast with the natural hair colour.

    Example

    She went to the salon to get some blonde highlights.

    Example

    Subtle highlights can add dimension to dark hair without requiring a complete colour change.
Origin

From high + light.

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