n. & v.
n. 1 Mus. a the art or technique of setting, writing, or playing a melody or melodies in conjunction with another, according to fixed rules. b a melody played in conjunction with another. 2 a contrasting argument, plot, idea, or literary theme, etc., used to set off the main element.
v.tr. 1 Mus. add counterpoint to. 2 set (an argument, plot, etc.) in contrast to (a main element). strict counterpoint an academic exercise in writing counterpoint, not necessarily intended as a composition.
[ OF contrepoint f. med.L contrapunctum pricked or marked opposite, i.e. to the original melody (as CONTRA-, pungere punct- prick) ]