I. ˈkau̇n-tər-ˌpȯint 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)
II. transitive verb
Date: 1875
1. : to compose or arrange in counterpoint
2. : to set off or emphasize by juxtaposition : set in contrast
counterpoint s the public and the private man — Tom Bishop