counteract

[ koun-ter-akt ]

verb (used with object)

1. to act in opposition to; frustrate by contrary action.

   Synonyms: thwart, contravene, counterbalance, neutralize

counteract

/ ˌkaʊntərˈækt /

verb

1. tr to oppose, neutralize, or mitigate the effects of by contrary action; check

Derived Forms

• ˌcounterˈactively, adverb
• ˌcounterˈactive, adjective
• ˌcounterˈaction, noun

Other Words From

• counter·actant adjective
• counter·acter counter·actor noun
• counter·acting·ly adverb
• counter·action noun
• counter·active adjective
• counter·active·ly adverb
• noncoun·ter·active adjective
• uncoun·ter·acted adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of counteract¹

First recorded in 1670–80; counter- + act

Example Sentences

In order to counteract climate change, the authors call for a systematic approach for the entire catchment area of rivers in the high mountains.

From Science Daily

By attacking the pathogen's unique and hidden metabolic "vulnerabilities," the lab offers a new tool in the global challenge to counteract antibiotic resistance and uncover similar combination therapies for other diseases.

From Science Daily

However, cancer patients may be at a disadvantage because their therapy, by blocking these same checkpoints, may counteract the anti-inflammatory benefits of fat reduction.

From Science Daily

To counteract these health effects, women may be prescribed hormone replacement therapy involving medicines containing hormones or hormone-like substances.

From Science Daily

Simufilam, which was supposed to counteract protein changes driving Alzheimer’s, failed to meet any primary, secondary, or exploratory end points, the company said.

From Science Magazine

Related Words

• cancel out
• correct
• counterbalance
• halt
• negate
• neutralize
• offset
• prevent
• rectify
• redress
• resist
• thwart