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&obreve;n"tr&adot;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.
