n. (pl. emphases)
1. special importance or prominence attached to a thing, fact, idea, etc. (emphasis on economy).
2 stress laid on a word or words to indicate special meaning or importance.
3 vigour or intensity of expression, feeling, action, etc.
4 prominence, sharpness of contour.
Etymology: L f. Gk f. emphaino exhibit (as EN-(2), phaino show)