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Counter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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counter

[ˈkaʊntər ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

kitchen

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

Synonyms

countertop, worktop.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
counter

Also refers to a person or a device that counts or keeps track of something.

  • The step counter showed she had walked 10,000 steps
  • The warehouse employs counters to keep track of inventory
countertop

Specifically refers to the flat surface in a kitchen or bathroom used for preparing food or placing items. Generally implies a more permanent and finished surface.

  • The kitchen had a marble countertop
  • She cleaned the countertop after preparing dinner
worktop

Commonly used in British English to describe the surface in a kitchen where kitchen work is done, similar to countertop in American English.

  • He cut the vegetables on the worktop
  • The new kitchen has a spacious 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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
counter

A device or person that counts.

  • The entry gate has a counter to track the number of visitors
  • They hired a counter to take inventory
checkout

The place in a store where customers pay for their purchases.

  • She waited in line at the checkout
  • The checkout clerk was very helpful
register

A machine used in shops which is used to calculate and record sales transactions; also refers to the list of recorded items or transactions.

  • The cashier opened the register to give me change
  • He signed his name in the register at the front desk

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
counter

Another context is describing a person or machine that counts, especially in a retail or inventory setting.

  • The counter at the grocery store tallied up my purchases
  • We hired a counter to keep track of our stock
incrementer

Used mainly in programming or technical settings to describe a function or tool that increases a numeric value by a set amount.

  • The incrementer in the code ensures the variable increases by one with each loop iteration
  • Use the incrementer to update the counter after each event
tracker

Commonly used to describe a system or tool that monitors and records the status, progress, or location of something over time.

  • The fitness tracker helps me monitor my daily activity
  • Our shipment tracker shows the package is currently in transit

Examples of usage

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

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • In many games and martial arts, 'counter' refers to a specific tactic used to reverse an opponent's action.
  • Movies often feature characters who 'counter' villains, using clever strategies to defeat them.
  • The concept of 'counterculture' arose in the 1960s, representing groups opposing mainstream values.

Science

  • In physics, 'counter' can refer to a device that records events, such as a Geiger counter measuring radiation.
  • In biology, 'countercurrent exchange' is a mechanism where fluids move in opposite directions to maximize efficiency, like in fish gills.
  • It also applies in statistics, where a 'counter example' disproves an assertion or hypothesis.

Literature

  • Classic literature often includes themes of 'counter' actions, like protagonists challenging societal norms.
  • Poets use the word in metaphorical ways, exploring the contrast between different ideas or situations.
  • Authors like George Orwell presented 'counter' events in dystopian narratives, reflecting rebellion against oppression.

Technology

  • In computing, a 'counter' registers the number of occurrences, crucial for programming loops and iterations.
  • Password security often employs 'counter' measures, such as limiting login attempts to prevent breaches.
  • Digital counters on websites track user actions, influencing marketing strategies through analytics.

Origin of 'counter'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'computare', meaning 'to calculate' or 'to count'.
  • In Middle French, 'counter' meant 'against', reflecting its modern usage when opposing something.
  • It first appeared in the English language around the late 14th century, showcasing its long-standing relevance.

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.