[coun.ter.point] n [MF contrepoint, fr. ML contrapunctus, fr. L contra- counter- + ML punctus musical note, melody, fr. L, act of pricking, fr. pungere to prick--more at pungent] (15c) 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)
[2]counterpoint vt (1875) 1: to compose or arrange in counterpoint
2: to set off or emphasize by juxtaposition: set in contrast "~s the public and the private man --Tom Bishop"