accompaniment Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun an event or situation that happens at the same time as or in connection with another
    concomitant; attendant; co-occurrence.
  2. noun a musical part (vocal or instrumental) that supports or provides background for other musical parts
    backup; support; musical accompaniment.
  3. noun something added to complete or embellish or make perfect
    complement.
    • a fine wine is a perfect complement to the dinner
    • wild rice was served as an accompaniment to the main dish
  4. noun the act of accompanying someone or something in order to protect them
    escort.

WordNet

Ac*com"pa*ni*ment noun
Etymology
F. accompagnement.
Definitions
  1. That which accompanies; something that attends as a circumstance, or which is added to give greater completeness to the principal thing, or by way of ornament, or for the sake of symmetry. Specifically: (Mus.) A part performed by instruments, accompanying another part or parts performed by voices; the subordinate part, or parts, accompanying the voice or a principal instrument; also, the harmony of a figured bass. P. Cyc.

Webster 1913