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counterpoint

Pronunciation: /ˈkaʊntə(ɹ)ˌpɔɪnt/

The English word “counterpoint” has 5 meanings listed here.

noun

  1. A melody added to an existing one, especially one added to provide harmony whilst each retains its simultaneous identity; a composition consisting of such contrapuntal melodies.
  2. Any similar contrasting element in a work of art.
  3. An opposite point.

verb

  1. To compose or arrange such music.
  2. To serve as an opposing point against.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English [Term?], from Middle French contrepoint, from Medieval Latin contrāpūnctum. Equivalent to counter- + point.

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Definitions are from Wiktionary, extracted by Kaikki.org, and are available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence.