# counterpoint

> English word · Noun · IPA /ˈkaʊntə(ɹ)ˌpɔɪnt/ · frequency rank #25,022

## Definitions
1. 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.
2. Any similar contrasting element in a work of art.
3. An opposite point.

## Etymology
Inherited from Middle English [Term?], from Middle French contrepoint, from Medieval Latin contrāpūnctum. Equivalent to counter- + point.

## Common misspellings (18)
`ccounterpoint`, `conuterpoint`, `counetrpoint`, `counnterpoint`, `counteproint`, `counteropint`, `counterpiont`, `counterpoinnt`, `counterpointt`, `counterpoitn`, `counterponit`, `counterppoint`, `counterrpoint`, `countrepoint`, `countterpoint`, `coutnerpoint`, `cuonterpoint`, `ocunterpoint`

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/counterpoint