Category:Contrast

Con*trast", v. i. [imp. & p.p. Contrasted; p.pr. & vb.n. Contrasting.] Etym: [F. contraster, LL. contrastare to resist, withstand, fr. L. contra + stare to stand. See Stand.]

Defn: 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.

contrast 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)

Defn: 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.

contrast Con"trast, n. Etym: [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)

Defn: The opposition of varied forms, colors, etc., which by such juxtaposition more vividly express each other's pecularities. Fairholt.