To accentuate something means to make it more noticeable or to emphasize it. When a chef accentuates the sweetness of strawberries by adding a tiny pinch of salt, she's bringing out that flavor so you notice it more. When an artist uses a bright yellow to accentuate the sun in a painting, she's drawing your eye to it.

You might accentuate the positive parts of a situation when describing it, or a musician might accentuate certain notes to give a melody more feeling. In fashion, people talk about accentuating features they like: a belt might accentuate someone's waist, or a particular color might accentuate their eyes.

The key idea is emphasis through contrast or enhancement. You're not changing what something is, you're making it stand out more clearly so others notice it too.