LATIN PREFIX 8 CONTRA-, CONTRO-, COUNTER("against,contrary) con(<-> pro) (short for contra) 1. against; on the negative side 2. opposing argument; reason against contraband merchandise imported or exported contrary to law; smugled goods contravene go or act contrary to; violate; disregard; infringe controversy (literally, "a turning against") dispute; debate; quarrel counter (followed to)..