Meaning & Definition of word "Accent"

Accent

/ˈæk.sɛnt/

1. A distinctive mode of pronunciation of a language, especially one associated with a particular nation, locality, or social class.
- Example: She spoke with a heavy British accent that made her stand out among her American friends.
2. Emphasis, stress, or special importance given to a particular syllable, word, or phrase when speaking.
- Example: In the word 'record,' the accent is on the second syllable when used as a noun.
3. A mark used in writing to indicate the correct pronunciation of a letter.
- Example: The word 'café' has an accent over the 'e' to indicate that it should be pronounced like 'ay.'
4. A characteristic feature or trait that highlights or emphasizes something.
- Example: The vibrant red curtains added an accent to the otherwise neutral-colored room.

1. To emphasize a particular syllable, word, or phrase while speaking.
- Example: The teacher told her students to accent the important points in their presentations.
2. To highlight or make more noticeable.
- Example: The designer chose to accent the room with colorful artwork.

From Latin 'acentus', meaning 'a tone or a pitch'.

put on an accent:

To pretend to speak in a different accent, often for comedic effect.

accentuate the positive:

To emphasize the good rather than the negative.

thick accent:

A very strong and easily noticeable accent.

intonation:

The rise and fall in pitch while speaking.

dialect:

A particular form of a language peculiar to a specific region or group.

inflection:

The modulation of pitch in speech.

Meaning: To speak with a particular flair or style.

Example Sentence: He really knows how to accent his words when he speaks.

Meaning: To emphasize something in a conversation.

Example Sentence: She always accents the fun parts of her stories.