counterpoint

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a contrasting element set against another; combined melodic lines

   The cheerful music served as a counterpoint to the grim plot.

From Old French 'contrepoint', from Medieval Latin 'contrapunctus' ('note against note'), from 'contra' ('against') plus 'punctus' ('a point, musical note'), from 'pungere' ('to prick').

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