Real Dictionary

contrast in American English
a contrasting or being contrasted
to compare so as to point out the differences; set off against one another
to show differences when compared; form a contrast
intransitive verb: to exhibit unlikeness on comparison with something else; form a contrast
noun: the act of contrasting; the state of being contrasted
transitive verb: to compare in order to show unlikeness or differences; note the opposite natures, purposes, etc., of

contrast in British English
noun: distinction or emphasis of difference by comparison of opposite or dissimilar things, qualities, etc (esp in the phrases by contrast, in contrast to or with)
verb: to distinguish or be distinguished by comparison of unlike or opposite qualities