1570s, "intensity of expression," from Latin emphasis, from Greek emphasis "an appearing in, outward appearance;" in rhetoric, "significance, indirect meaning," from. In Greek and Latin, originally a figure of expression implying, in context, more than would ordinarily be meant by the words.

Where does the word emphasize come from?

Emphasize comes from words that mean “significance” and “to present or show.” A player who finally makes the varsity team might emphasize this achievement by always wearing his practice jersey — even off the field, or you might emphasize the importance of being on time by locking the door on latecomers.

Why does emphasize mean?

: to give special attention or importance to He emphasized the word "maybe."