counterpoint

(ko̵untər po̵int′)

noun

    1. the technique of combining two or more distinct lines of music that sound simultaneously, esp. with an emphasis on melodic, as opposed to harmonic, progression
    2. this kind of composition
  1. any melody played or sung against a basic melody
  2. a thing set up in contrast or interaction with another

Origin: ME countrepoint < MFr contrepoint < It contrappunto, lit., pointed against: see counter- & point,

See counterpoint in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun
  1. Music
    a. Melodic material that is added above or below an existing melody.
    b. The technique of combining two or more melodic lines in such a way that they establish a harmonic relationship while retaining their linear individuality.
    c. A composition or piece that incorporates or consists of contrapuntal writing.
  2. a. A contrasting but parallel element, item, or theme.
    b. Use of contrasting elements in a work of art.
transitive verb coun·ter·point·ed, coun·ter·point·ing, coun·ter·points
  1. Music To write or arrange (music) in counterpoint.
  2. To set in contrast: “The complex, clotted computer talk sadly counterpoints the simplistic nature of the characters” (Rhoda Koenig).

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