Accompany

Definition

Accompany is a verb that means to go somewhere with someone as a companion, or to be present or occur at the same time as something else.

Parts of Speech

• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈkʌmpəni/
• Respelling: uh-KUHM-puh-nee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈkʌmpəni/
• Respelling: uh-KUHM-puh-nee

Etymology

The word "accompany" originates from the Old French term "acompagner," which derives from "a-" (to) and "compaign" (companion). The term entered Middle English in the 14th century and has maintained its association with companionship and co-occurrence.

Derivatives

• Accompaniment (noun)
• Accompanist (noun)
• Accompanying (adjective)
• Unaccompanied (adjective)
• Reaccompany (verb)

Synonyms

• Escort
• Attend
• Follow

Antonyms

• Leave
• Abandon
• Separate

Usage

The term "accompany" is often used to indicate going with someone or something, either in a literal sense or in a situational context. For example, "He decided to accompany her on the trip," or "Thunder often accompanies lightning."

Related Terms

• Escort: To go with someone as a companion or guide.
• Attend: To be present at or accompany an event, person, or occurrence.
• Partner: Someone who takes part in an activity or event together with another person.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To go somewhere with someone as a companion: Indicates physically accompanying another person as a form of support or partnership.
  • Example: "She asked her friend to accompany her to the doctor."
• To occur or exist at the same time as something else: Describes something that happens in conjunction with or alongside another event or state.
  • Example: "A sense of responsibility must accompany freedom."
• To play a musical part that supports the main part: Refers to musicians performing additional parts to complement the main performer, often on instruments.
  • Example: "The pianist will accompany the singer during the concert."