VocabDictionary

counter

/ˈkaʊn.tər/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A long flat surface in a kitchen, shop, or bar over which business is conducted or food is prepared.

Example Sentences:
  • She leaned against the kitchen counter while waiting for the coffee to brew.
  • The clerk placed the merchandise on the counter for the customer to inspect.
2.verb

To speak or act in opposition to something; to respond to an action with a contrary action.

Example Sentences:
  • The lawyer was quick to counter the witness's claims with new evidence.
  • He tried to counter the negative publicity by launching a charitable campaign.
3.adjective

In the opposite direction or position; contrary.

Example Sentences:
  • His actions were counter to the company's established safety policies.
  • The wind was blowing in a counter direction, making our hike much harder.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “counter”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Old French 'contor', meaning an accountant or a table for counting money, which itself comes from the Latin 'computare' (to count). The sense of 'opposing' or 'against' evolved later from the prefix 'counter-', derived from the Latin 'contra'.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Imagine a shopkeeper standing behind a 'counter' counting money to ensure the total is correct.

Frequently Asked Questions About “counter

1. What is the meaning of “counter” in English?

In English, counter (noun) is defined as: “A long flat surface in a kitchen, shop, or bar over which business is conducted or food is prepared.”.

2. How do you use “counter” in a sentence?

She leaned against the kitchen counter while waiting for the coffee to brew.

3. What are English synonyms of “counter”?

Common synonyms include:worktop,oppose,retort,contradict

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “counter”?

Derived from the Old French 'contor', meaning an accountant or a table for counting money, which itself comes from the Latin 'computare' (to count). The sense of 'opposing' or 'against' evolved later from the prefix 'counter-', derived from the Latin 'contra'.