Definition

Having colors or patterns exchanged in a mutual way, often used in heraldry to describe a design where elements are swapped between two different colors.

Example

The coat of arms featured a counterchanged design, with the lion in gold on a blue background and the shield in blue on a gold background.

Conversation

Did you see that new flag design they created for the competition?

Yes, it's really unique! I love how it looks counterchanged.

I know, right? The colors really pop against each other.

Totally! It makes the flag stand out so much more.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Counterchanged → It is formed from "counter-" (meaning opposite or in return) and "changed" (from Old French *changer*, meaning to change). The word describes a situation where something has been changed in an opposite manner or in return to its original state.

Memory Tip

Think of something being changed in an 'opposite' way ('counter-') — that's what counterchanged means.

Visually Confused Words