accent

Definition

  • noun: a way of pronouncing words that occurs among the people in a particular region or country
  • noun: an articulative effort giving prominence to one syllable over adjacent syllables
  • verb: to pronounce with accent
  • verb: to give special attention to (something)
  • usually + 'on'
  • synonyms: stress, tone, word

Examples

  • When you say “before,” you should 'accent' the second syllable. = You should 'accent' the word “before” on the second syllable.

  • The 'accents' in the French word “émigré” show how the letter “e” should be pronounced.

  • His speech 'accented' [='highlighted, emphasized'] positive parts of the plan.

Movie quotes

  • (..) Maybe it's the way you're wearing your hair now. You guys have really done a lot with the place. Lord, would you listen to that accent? Why don't you sit in my good chair? Now, your mama got me this Christmas before last. Oh, you mean the one where you (..)
    2002 Sweet Home Alabama
  • (..) It's a warning! Oh, my God. ...Hey. ...Hi. You know, that accent of yours is a whole lot thicker when you're dreaming. All right, how come y'all let me sleep? Oh, calm down. (..)
    2002 Sweet Home Alabama