n.
Pronunciation: ' kau ̇ n-t ə r- ˌ po ̇ int
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French contrepoint, from Medieval Latin contrapunctus, from Latin contra- counter- + Medieval Latin punctus musical note, melody, from Latin, act of pricking, from pungere to prick ― more at PUNGENT
Date: 15th century
1 a : one or more independent melodies added above or below a given melody b : the combination of two or more independent melodies into a single harmonic texture in which each retains its linear character : POLYPHONY
2 a : a complementing or contrasting item : OPPOSITE b : use of contrast or interplay of elements in a work of art (as a drama)