Definition

A person or thing that has the same function or characteristics as another, often used to refer to a corresponding person or thing in a different context.

Example

The CEO met with her counterpart from the other company to discuss the merger.

Conversation

I met my new colleague yesterday, and she's really impressive.

Oh really? How does she compare to your last counterpart?

Actually, they're quite similar in their approach to projects.

That's cool! It's always nice to have a good counterpart to work with.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Counterpart → It is formed from "counter-" (meaning opposite or against, derived from Old French *contre*) and "part" (from Latin *partem*, meaning part or portion). The word "counterpart" refers to something that corresponds to or has a similar function as another, often in an opposite or complementary way.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'opposite' or 'against' ('counter-') another 'part' — that's why a counterpart is something that corresponds to another.

Visually Confused Words