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Definition of italicize

italicize

/ɪˈtæl.ə.saɪz/
(UK: italicise)
i · tal · i · cize
Adjective:italic
•
Past Simple:italicized
•
Past Participle:italicized
•
Present Participle:italicizing
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italicize Lexical Profile

italicize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To print, type, or format text in italics, typically to indicate emphasis, foreign words, or the titles of published works.

Example

"Remember to italicize the titles of books, journals, and films in your bibliography."

2

To give special emphasis, prominence, or stress to a word, phrase, or idea.

Example

"Her pause before the final word seemed to italicize the gravity of the announcement."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for italicize
Antonyms
View all antonyms for italicize

• Rhymes for italicize

• Nearby Words

itajaí
italic
italicization
italicize
italy
itapicuru
itata

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 18th century from 'italic' and the verb-forming suffix '-ize'. The term 'italic' derives via Latin 'italicus' (meaning 'Italian'), referencing the slanted cursive typeface first introduced in 1501 by the Venetian printer Aldus Manutius.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Italicize. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/italicize
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