syncopated

adjective

syn·​co·​pat·​ed ˈsiŋ-kə-ˌpā-təd How to pronounce syncopated (audio)
ˈsin-
Synonyms of syncopatednext
1
: cut short : abbreviated
2
: marked by or exhibiting syncopation
syncopated rhythm

Examples of syncopated in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The best sax players work off patterns, beats and syncopated rhythms. — Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune, 24 Feb. 2026 Samba is a Brazilian music and dance genre driven by syncopated rhythms that grew out of Afro-Brazilian traditions. — ABC News, 17 Feb. 2026 Jamerson’s legacy is that of the architect of modern electric bass playing, particularly the transformation of the bass into a melodic, syncopated force. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 22 Apr. 2026 Their exhilarating fusion of bebop virtuosity and intensely syncopated Cuban rhythms had a broad impact that built on the important, but lesser known, work of band leader Mario Bauzá. — George Varga, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for syncopated

Word History

First Known Use

1665, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of syncopated was in 1665

Rhymes for syncopated

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Browse Nearby Words

syncopate
syncopated
syncopated counterpoint
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Cite this Entry

“Syncopated.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/syncopated. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on syncopated

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for syncopated

Nglish: Translation of syncopated for Spanish Speakers

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