counter
Definitions
A long, flat surface in a kitchen or shop over which business is transacted or food is prepared.
A person or thing that counts or calculates something.
To speak or act in opposition to; to respond to an action with a retaliatory move.
Examples
She placed her keys on the kitchen counter as soon as she walked through the door.
The lawyer presented a strong counter to the prosecution's argument.
We need to counter the rising costs of production by improving our efficiency.