ˈkauntəpɔɪnt 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). østrict 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 punctprick)]