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

  • (..) We are going to have to follow her and find out what she is up to. And if I am going to America... ...I am going to have to speak with a flawless American accent... ...so as not to arouse suspicion. So find me the greatest accent coach in the world. I would like to buy a hamburger. (..)
    2006 The Pink Panther
  • (..) You go down the hall, make a right and two lefts. You are finding something amusing here? I'll be honest with you. I... I find your accent quite funny. - Where are you from? - From Russia. Gluant recruited me from the Russian military gym. You need to work on your accent. (..)
    2006 The Pink Panther