syncopation

noun

syn·​co·​pa·​tion ˌsiŋ-kə-ˈpā-shən 

ˌsin-

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

syncopative

ˈsiŋ-kə-ˌpā-tiv 

ˈsin-

adjective

Examples of syncopation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Courtesy Paula Cooper Gallery and White Cube The syncopation of time arises in part from stylistic differences over the lifespan of cinema: Different periods have different pacing. —Jonathon Keats, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025

The title tune is a dazzling display of syncopation. —George Varga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Feb. 2025

The bullfrog-like syncopations that tease and cackle as Levon Helm sings the verses are from Hudson’s clavinet. —Jon Pareles, New York Times, 24 Jan. 2025

The production is crystal clear, with rumbling bass, percolating syncopation and lovely acoustic guitars in the bridge. —Cerys Davies, Los Angeles Times, 31 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1597, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for syncopation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

syncopation

noun

syn·​co·​pa·​tion ˌsiŋ-kə-ˈpā-shən 

ˌsin-

1

: a temporary accenting of a normally weak beat in music to vary the rhythm

2

: a syncopated rhythm, passage, or dance step