counterpoint

/ˌkaʊntərˈpɔɪnt/

/ˈkaʊntəpɔɪnt/

Other forms: counterpoints; counterpointed; counterpointing

A counterpoint is something that contrasts, and to counterpoint is to provide a contrast. In music, counterpoint is when two separate melodies are played or sung at the same time.

When a composer writes a piece of music using voices that follow different rhythms or pitches but ultimately come together harmonically, she uses counterpoint. And if you're on the school debate time, you might offer a counterpoint to an opponent's argument. You can also use this word as a verb to mean "to highlight difference:" "My tidy bookshelves counterpoint the mess of papers and books on my desk."

Definitions of counterpoint

1. noun

   an element, idea, or argument used to create a contrast
   type of:

   component, constituent, element, factor, ingredient

   an abstract part of something
2. verb

   show differences when compared; be different
   synonyms: contrast

   types:

   counterbalance, oppose

   contrast with equal weight or force

   conflict

   be in conflict

   foil

   enhance by contrast

   counterpoise, counterpose, counterweight

   constitute a counterweight or counterbalance to

   clash, collide, jar

   be incompatible; be or come into conflict

   type of:

   differ

   be different
3. noun

   a musical form involving the simultaneous sound of two or more melodies
   type of:

   concerted music, polyphonic music, polyphony

   music arranged in parts for several voices or instruments
4. verb

   write in counterpoint
   “Bach perfected the art of counterpointing”

   type of:

   compose, write

   write music