Main Entry: syn·co·pa·tion

Pronunciation: \ˌsiŋ-kə-ˈpā-shən, ˌsin-\

Function: noun

Date: 1597

1 : a temporary displacement of the regular metrical accent in music caused typically by stressing the weak beat
2 : a syncopated rhythm, passage, or dance step

— syn·co·pa·tive \ˈsiŋ-kə-ˌpā-tiv, ˈsin-\ adjective