counterattack

American  

[koun-ter-uh-tak, koun-ter-uh-tak, koun-ter-uh-tak] / ˈkaʊn tər əˌtæk, ˌkaʊn tər əˈtæk, ˈkaʊn tər əˌtæk /

noun

1. an attack made as an offset or reply to another attack.

2. Military. an attack by a ground combat unit to drive back an enemy attack.

---

verb (used with object)

1. to make a counterattack against.

verb (used without object)

1. to deliver a counterattack.

counterattack British  

/ ˈkaʊntərəˌtæk /

noun

1. an attack in response to an attack

---

verb

1. to make a counterattack (against)

Etymology

Origin of counterattack

First recorded in 1915–20; counter- + attack

Example Sentences

It also filled a gap from April 22, shortly after back to back bottoming bullish counterattack and engulfing candles on April 7 and 9.

From Barron's

When the index tested the 7000 level last Wednesday, the result was uninspiring, printing a bearish counterattack candle.

From Barron's

In October, the South American country unveiled its first drone battalion to counterattack and defend against drone onslaughts.

From Barron's

In reality, the war would involve a dizzying array of attacks and counterattacks.

From The Wall Street Journal

When Israeli forces counterattacked a few days later, some crews were driving Egyptian tanks, which Israeli troops had recovered from the battlefield, repaired and turned back against the enemy.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• reprisal
• retribution
• revenge