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Counter: meaning, definitions and examples

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counter

 

[ ˈkaʊntər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

kitchen

A flat-topped container in a kitchen, typically used for preparing food or washing dishes.

Synonyms

countertop, worktop

Examples of usage

  • I need to wash these dishes in the counter.
  • The counter is a mess after cooking dinner.
Context #2 | Noun

business

A long flat-topped table in a store or bank at which customers are served.

Synonyms

checkout, register

Examples of usage

  • The cashier is waiting for you at the counter.
  • You can pay at the counter after shopping.
Context #3 | Noun

computing

A variable in a computer program that keeps track of a value.

Synonyms

incrementer, tracker

Examples of usage

  • The counter in the program reached its maximum limit.
  • We need to reset the counter for accurate data.

Translations

Translations of the word "counter" in other languages:

🇵🇹 contador

🇮🇳 काउंटर

🇩🇪 Zähler

🇮🇩 penghitung

🇺🇦 лічильник

🇵🇱 licznik

🇯🇵 カウンター

🇫🇷 compteur

🇪🇸 contador

🇹🇷 sayaç

🇰🇷 카운터

🇸🇦 عداد

🇨🇿 pult

🇸🇰 pult

🇨🇳 柜台

🇸🇮 števec

🇮🇸 teljari

🇰🇿 есептегіш

🇬🇪 საკონტაქტო

🇦🇿 sayğac

🇲🇽 contador

Etymology

The word 'counter' originated from Old French 'contre', meaning 'against, opposite'. It first appeared in English in the late 14th century with the sense of 'contrary, opposite'. Over time, it evolved to also mean a table or flat surface for various purposes. The computing sense of 'counter' emerged in the mid-20th century with the rise of digital technology.

See also: count, countable, countenance, counting, countless, county, discount, encounter, recount, recounted, uncountable.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,827, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.