contretemps Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun an awkward clash
    • he tried to smooth over his contretemps with the policeman

WordNet

Con`tre*temps" noun
Etymology
F., fr. contre (L. conta) + temps time, fr. L. tempus.
Definitions
  1. An unexpected and untoward accident; something inopportune or embarassing; a hitch.
    In this unhappy contretemps. De Quincey.

Webster 1913