Present participle of contrast; comparing things to show differences, or standing in opposition to highlight distinctions.
From French contraster, ultimately from Latin contra- (against) and stare (to stand). The word literally means 'to stand against' and entered English in the 17th century through art criticism.
The concept originated in art criticism to describe how painters used light and dark areas to create visual drama - what we now call chiaroscuro. The metaphorical use for comparing ideas followed the visual meaning, showing how artistic terminology often becomes general vocabulary.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.