Which definition best captures the noun 'accompaniment'?

• A. a decorative item added to a garment
• B. a musical instrument
• C. something that accompanies something or someone else
• D. a crowd accompanying a protest

Answer: (C)

An accompaniment is anything that goes with or adds to something else. In music, the accompaniment refers to the parts that support the main melody or performer—the chords, rhythm, and background voices that surround the lead. In dining, an accompaniment can be a side dish or sauce that enhances the main course. Both senses center on the idea of something that goes along with and supports or complements another thing.

The best match is the option that defines an accompaniment as “something that accompanies something or someone else,” because it captures the general sense of going along with or accompanying another item or person.

The other ideas describe specific items that aren’t about going along with or supporting something: a decorative item on a garment is more like an accessory; a musical instrument is an object used to make music rather than something that accompanies; a crowd accompanying a protest refers to people who are with the protest, which is a different usage and not the common definition of the noun.