syncopate
/ˈsɪŋkəpeɪt/
verb
- To alter the rhythm of music by stressing beats that are normally weak or by placing accents between beats.
- In Latin music, it's common to syncopate the rhythm with claves and congas.
- The composer decided to syncopate the drum pattern to make the song more danceable.
- Jazz musicians often syncopate the melody to create a lively, offbeat feel.