counter
Cross references:
1. adverse
2. count.er \'kau.nt-*r\ n [ME countour, fr. MF comptouer, fr. ML
computatorium computin]g place, fr. L computatus, pp. of computare 1: a
piece (as of metal or ivory) used in reckoning or in games 2: something of
value in bargaining : ASSET 3: a level surface (as a table) over which
transactions are conducted or fo od is served or on which goods are
displayed or work is conducted
2. count.er n [ME, fr. MF conteor, fr. compter to count] : one that counts;
esp : a device for indicating a number or amoun t
3. coun.ter \'kau.nt-*r\ vb [ME countren, fr. MF contre] 1a: to act in
opposition to : OPPOSE 1b: OFFSET, NULLIFY 2: to adduce in answer : to
meet attacks or arguments with defensive or retaliatory steps
4. coun.ter av [ME contre, fr. MF, fr. L contra against, opposite; akin to
L co]m- with, together 1: in an opposite or wrong direction 2: to or
toward a different or opposite result or effect
5. coun.ter n 1: CONTRARY, OPPOSITE 2: the after portion of a boat from
the waterline to the extreme outward sw ell or stern overhang 3a: a
circular parry in fencing in which the blade follows that of the oppo nent
3b: the act of giving a blow while receiving or parrying one (as in boxing)
; also : the blow given 3c: an agency or force that offsets : CHECK 4: a
stiffener to give permanent form to a boot or shoe upper around the he el
5: any area in the face of a letter that is less than type-high and enclose
d by the strokes
6. coun.ter aj 1: marked by or tending toward or in an opposite direction
or effect : (MOPPOSED 2: given to or marked by opposition or hostility 3:
situated or lying opposite 4: COUNTERMANDING