Highlighter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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highlighter

[ˈhaɪˌlaɪ.tər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

stationery

A marker pen with a narrow tip, used for highlighting important sections of text.

Synonyms

fluorescent pen, marker, text marker.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
highlighter

Used in academic or office settings to make important text stand out by adding bright, transparent color over the text.

  • I used a highlighter to mark key points in my lecture notes
  • The highlighter made the important dates stand out in the document
marker

General use for drawing or writing on surfaces such as whiteboards, paper, and sometimes even walls. The term is broader and can refer to both thick and thin-tipped tools.

  • He drew a big chart on the whiteboard with markers
  • I labeled the boxes using a permanent marker
fluorescent pen

Similar to a highlighter, but specifically refers to pens with neon or fluorescent colors that grab attention.

  • She used a fluorescent pen to underline the crucial parts of the contract
  • The neon colors of the fluorescent pen made her writing vibrantly noticeable
text marker

Specifically used for highlighting or marking text in books, documents, or notes, similar to a highlighter but may vary slightly in regional usage.

  • She highlighted the important paragraphs with a text marker
  • Using a text marker, he easily identified the main sections of the report

Examples of usage

  • She used a yellow highlighter to mark the key points in the document.
  • The students were advised to bring a highlighter to the exam.
Context #2 | Noun

makeup

A cosmetic product used to emphasize or brighten specific areas of the face, such as the cheekbones or brow bones.

Synonyms

illuminator, luminizer, shimmer powder.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
highlighter

Commonly used in makeup to highlight areas of the face, creating a brighter, more lifted appearance. Often used on the cheekbones, brow bone, and cupid's bow.

  • Apply highlighter to the tops of your cheekbones for a radiant glow
illuminator

Typically used to give the skin a luminous, dewy look overall. It can be mixed with foundation or applied to the skin directly.

  • For a glowing complexion, mix a few drops of illuminator with your foundation
luminizer

A specific type of highlighter that provides a more intense shine and is often used for creating a pronounced glow. Similar to an illuminator but usually more concentrated.

  • Use a luminizer on your cheekbones when you want an extra pop of brightness
shimmer powder

A powdered product with reflective particles, used to add a subtle shimmer or sparkle to the skin. It can be used on the face or body and is often applied for special occasions or evening events.

  • Dust shimmer powder on your collarbones and shoulders for a glamorous night out

Examples of usage

  • She applied a highlighter to her cheekbones for a glowing look.
  • The makeup artist used a highlighter to create a dewy finish.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • The first highlighters were created in the late 1960s, allowing people to easily mark important text.
  • Originally, they were made with fluorescent ink which glowed under UV light, making markings very eye-catching.
  • The invention of the highlighter changed the way students and professionals study by making reviewing materials more efficient.

Psychology

  • Highlighting helps improve retention of information; studies show that visual cues enhance memory recall.
  • Using color to differentiate text can aid in organizing thoughts and prioritizing tasks, making studying more effective.
  • The act of highlighting engages both the brain's visual and motor systems, promoting better understanding.

Pop Culture

  • Highlighters have become iconic in academic settings, often featured in films and TV shows as symbols of study and preparation.
  • With the rise of digital technologies, highlighters have also been embraced in software tools, allowing users to highlight digital text.
  • The bold colors of highlighters have inspired fashion trends, with many people using similar bright shades in clothing and accessories.

Art

  • Bright highlighter ink has inspired artists to create vibrant, playful pieces, often seen in modern graffiti and street art.
  • Highlighters can also be used in mixed media art, enhancing sketches and other art forms by adding splashes of color.
  • Some contemporary artists use highlighter-style strokes for their paintings to convey energy and emotion.

Origin of 'highlighter'

The term 'highlighter' originated in the mid-20th century and was initially used to refer to a marker pen with a fluorescent ink that could be used to mark important information in textbooks and documents. Over time, the term expanded to include cosmetic products that add luminosity or brightness to specific areas of the face. The popularity of highlighters in both stationery and makeup contexts has made them a staple in many people's daily routines.


See also: highlighted, highlighters, highlighting.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,078, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.