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. [ 1913 Webster ]

The joints which divide the sandstone contrast finely with the divisional planes which separate the basalt into pillars. Lyell. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

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. [ 1913 Webster ]

the figures of the groups must not be all on side . . . but must contrast each other by their several position. Dryden. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. [ F. contraste: cf. It. contrasto. ] 1. The act of contrasting, or the state of being contrasted; comparison by contrariety of qualities. [ 1913 Webster ]

place the prospect of the soul
In sober contrast with reality. Wordsworth. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. Opposition or dissimilitude of things or qualities; unlikeness, esp. as shown by juxtaposition or comparison. [ 1913 Webster ]

The contrasts and resemblances of the seasons. Whewell. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Fine Arts) The opposition of varied forms, colors, etc., which by such juxtaposition more vividly express each other's peculiarities. Fairholt. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. Counteracting the effects of stimulants; relating to a course of medical treatment based on a theory of contrastimulants. -- n. (Med.) An agent which counteracts the effect of a stimulant. [ 1913 Webster ]