I. ˈkau̇ntə(r)+ˌ- noun
Etymology: counter- + part
1. : one of two corresponding copies of a legal instrument (as an indenture) : duplicate
2.
a. : a thing that may be applied to another thing so as to fit perfectly (as a seal to its impression)
b. : something that serves to complete or complement : complement
retain export controls … only where needed as a counterpart of domestic distribution controls — U.S. Code
c. : one playing opposite in a play
Miss Doe as heroine served as an adequate counterpart to the lead role
3.
a. : one remarkably similar to another : a person or thing so like another that is seems a duplicate
mistook a feverish flush as the counterpart of healthy color
b. : equivalent : something or someone having the same use, role, or characteristics often in a different sphere or period
metal knives and axes came into use promptly, replacing their stone counterparts — E.H.Spicer
such laws in psychology he thought to be the counterpart of the laws of mechanics in physics — S.F.Mason
II. adjective
: of or relating to a fund set up by a nation receiving economic aid from another, the fund being in the currency of the former and its amount being equal to the value of the goods and services received
counterpart funds
counterpart francs