Crossword Dictionary

What's The Definition Of Contrast?

\Con*trast"\, v. i. [imp. & p. p. {Contrasted}; p. pr. & vb. n. {Contrasting}.] [F. contraster, LL. contrastare to resist, withstand, fr. L. contra + stare to stand. See {Stand}.] To stand in opposition; to exhibit difference, unlikeness, or opposition of qualities. The joints which divide the sandstone contrast finely with the divisional planes which separate the basalt into pillars. --Lyell.
\Con*trast"\, v. t. 1. To set in opposition, or over against, in order to show the differences between, or the comparative excellences and defects of; to compare by difference or contrariety of qualities; as, to contrast the present with the past. 2. (Fine Arts) To give greater effect to, as to a figure or other object, by putting it in some relation of opposition to another figure or object. the figures of the groups must not be all on side . . . but must contrast each other by their several position. --Dryden.
\Con"trast\ (k[o^]n"tr[.a]st), n. [F. contraste: cf. It. contrasto.] 1. The act of contrasting, or the state of being contrasted; comparison by contrariety of qualities. place the prospect of the soul In sober contrast with reality. --Wordsworth. 2. Opposition or dissimilitude of things or qualities; unlikeness, esp. as shown by juxtaposition or comparison. The contrasts and resemblances of the seasons. --Whewell. 3. (Fine Arts) The opposition of varied forms, colors, etc., which by such juxtaposition more vividly express each other's peculiarities. --Fairholt.