1
- mass noun Music the art or technique of setting, writing, or playing a melody or melodies in conjunction with another, according to fixed rules【乐】对位法。
1.1
- count noun a melody played in conjunction with another对立声部; 复调。
2
- an argument, idea, or theme used to create a contrast with the main element形成对比的论点（思想、主题）：
I have used my interviews with parents as a counterpoint to a professional judgement.
我把对家长们的访谈结果作为专业判断的对比。
with obj.
1
- Music add counterpoint to (a melody)【乐】加复调于：
the orchestra counterpoints the vocal part.
管弦乐队给歌唱部分配复调。
2
- （常作 be counterpointed）emphasize by contrast通过对比强调：
the cream walls and maple floors are counterpointed by black accents.
黑色的衬托使乳白色墙壁和槭木地板更加突出。
2.1
- compensate for弥补：
the yarn's fanciful excesses are counterpointed with some sharp and unsentimental dialogue.
故事里的一些尖锐而实际的对话弥补了过分离奇的情节。
词源
late Middle English: from Old French contrepoint, from medieval Latin contrapunctum '(song) pricked or marked over against (the original melody)', from contra- 'against' + punctum, from pungere 'to prick'.