accompaniment
UK: əˈkʌmpənɪmənt | US: əˈkʌmpənɪmənt
n. a musical part that supports or partners a solo instrument, voice, or group
n. something added to another thing to enhance or complement it
The word "accompaniment" derives from the Old French "acompagner" (to accompany), which combines "a-" (to, toward) and "compagnon" (companion). The suffix "-ment" was added to form a noun indicating the result or means of the action. The root "company" traces back to Latin "companionem" (breadfellow, one who shares meals), reflecting the idea of partnership or support—mirrored in the musical and general usage of the term.
The piano provided a gentle accompaniment to her singing.
A good wine is the perfect accompaniment to cheese.
The guitarist played the accompaniment while the vocalist took the lead.
The recipe suggests serving the dish with an accompaniment of fresh herbs.
His speech was delivered with a slideshow accompaniment.