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

The solution was incorporating polyrhythms and syncopation to add greater variety to the timing. —Oliver Sava, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2025

Two slack-jawed, bare- foot drummers are wailing a caveman beat in unison—their syncopation and their short, efficient haircuts mark them as obvious members of a cult. —Pat Blashill, Rolling Stone, 28 Aug. 2025

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

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