Real Dictionary

counter
countable noun: In a place such as a shop or café, a counter is a long narrow table or flat surface at which customers are served.

counter in American English 1
in a contrary direction, manner, etc.; in opposition; opposite
that acts in opposition, tends in an opposite direction, or is opposite or contrary; opposed or opposing
the opposite; contrary
noun: a table or display case on which goods can be shown, business transacted, etc

counter in American English 2
a person or thing that counts; computer
noun: a person who counts

counter in American English 3
adjective: opposite; opposed; contrary
adverb: in the wrong way; contrary to the right course; in the reverse or opposite direction
intransitive verb: to make a counter or opposing move
noun: something that is opposite or contrary to something else
transitive verb: to go counter to; oppose; controvert

counter in American English 4
transitive verb: to encounter in opposition or combat

counter in British English 1
noun: a horizontal surface, as in a shop or bank, over which business is transacted

counter in British English 2
adverb: in a contrary direction or manner

counter in British English 3
noun: a person who counts

counter-
prefix: Counter- is used to form words which refer to actions or activities that are intended to prevent other actions or activities or that respond to them.

counter- in American English
opposite, contrary to
combining form: a combining form of counter3 used with the meanings “against,” “contrary,” “opposite,” “in opposition or response to” (countermand); “complementary,” “in reciprocation,” “corresponding,” “ parallel” ( counterfoil; counterbalance); “substitute,” “duplicate

counter- in British English
prefix: against; opposite; contrary