'syncopation' originates from Medieval Latin, specifically the word 'syncopatio,' where 'syn-' meant 'together' and 'koptein' meant 'to cut.'

'syncopatio' transformed into the French word 'syncopation,' and eventually became the modern English word 'syncopation' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to cut together,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'displacement of the regular metrical accent in music.'