counter

[ˈkaʊntər]

counter Definition

• 1. a long flat surface over which goods are sold or business is transacted in a shop or bank
• 2. a small disc used in board games for keeping the score or as a place marker
• 3. a person or thing that opposes another or acts against something

Using counter: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "counter" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  I waited at the counter for fifteen minutes before being served.

• Example

  The counter was covered in various sweets and pastries.

• Example

  We use counters to keep track of our scores in the game.

• Example

  The opposition party has been a strong counter to the current administration.

• Example

  The new evidence presented by the defense was a strong counter to the prosecution's case.

counter Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for counter

• desk
• table
• board
• bar
• stand

Idioms Using counter

• keep/lose count

  to maintain or fail to maintain an accurate record of something

  Example

  I lost count of how many times I've watched this movie.

• counter to expectations

  opposite or contrary to what was expected

  Example

  Her performance was counter to expectations, as she exceeded everyone's predictions.

• counter attack

  an attack made in response to an attack by an enemy or opponent

  Example

  The team launched a counter attack after losing possession of the ball.

Phrases with counter

• over the counter

  available for purchase without a prescription

  Example

  You can buy this medicine over the counter at any pharmacy.

• under the counter

  done secretly or illegally

  Example

  He sold alcohol under the counter during the prohibition era.

• countersign

  to sign a document already signed by someone else, in order to confirm its authenticity

  Example

  The contract must be countersigned by both parties before it becomes valid.

Origins of counter

from Old French 'comptoir', from Latin 'computare', meaning 'to calculate'

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Summary: counter in Brief

The term 'counter' [ˈkaʊntər] refers to a flat surface used for business transactions or selling goods, as well as a small disc used in board games. It can also denote a person or thing that opposes or acts against something. The phrase 'over the counter' means available without a prescription, while 'under the counter' means done secretly or illegally. 'Counter' extends into idioms like 'keep/lose count,' and 'counter to expectations,' denoting opposites or contrary actions.