Definitions for: Contretemps

[n] an awkward clash; "he tried to smooth over his contretemps with the policeman"

Webster (1913) Definition: Con`tre*temps", n. [F., fr. contre (L. conta) +
temps time, fr. L. tempus.]
An unexpected and untoward accident; something inopportune or
embarrassing; a hitch.

In this unhappy contretemps. --De Quincey.

See Also: brush, clash, encounter, skirmish