counterpoint

== English == === Pronunciation === IPA(key): /ˈkaʊntə(ɹ)ˌpɔɪnt/ === Etymology 1 === Inherited from Middle English [Term?], from Middle French contrepoint, from Medieval Latin contrāpūnctum. Equivalent to counter- +‎ point. ==== Noun ==== counterpoint (countable and uncountable, plural counterpoints) (music) A melody added to an existing one, especially one added to provide harmony whilst each retains its simultaneous identity; a composition consisting of such contrapuntal melodies. Any similar contrasting element in a work of art. An opposite point. 1605, Sir Edwin Sandys, Europae Speculum [A Relation of the State of Religion in Europe], in Mary Ellen Henley, Sir Edwin Sandy's Europae Speculum: a Critical Edition (2001) […] Priests; who affecting in them selves and their followers a certein Angelical puritie, fell sodainly to the very counterpoint of justifying bestialitie. ===== Synonyms ===== contrapuntal music polyphony ===== Translations ===== ==== Verb ==== counterpoint (third-person singular simple present counterpoints, present participle counterpointing, simple past and past participle counterpointed) (transitive) To compose or arrange such music. (transitive) To serve as an opposing point against. ===== Translations ===== === Etymology 2 === From Old French contrepointe, a corruption of coultepointe, from Latin culcita puncta, i.e. a stitched pillow or cover. See quilt. ==== Noun ==== counterpoint (plural counterpoints) Obsolete form of counterpane. === Anagrams === unprotection