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.

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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

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verb

1. to make a counterattack (against)

Etymology

Origin of counterattack

First recorded in 1915–20; counter- + attack

Example Sentences

On the other hand, if the goal was regime change, a Hormuz counterattack would certainly have been anticipated.

From The Wall Street Journal

Even if such an assault were to succeed, the U.S. beachheads would have to be protected against counterattacks from the IRGC, whose strength is estimated at 190,000 active personnel.

From The Wall Street Journal

If those highs are breached on the upside a quick move toward $60 from the Liberation Day lows last April 7, which recorded a bearish counterattack candle, could come into play.

From Barron's

But the speed and severity of Iran’s counterattacks across energy powerhouses lining the Persian Gulf caught many off guard.

From The Wall Street Journal

That prior low produced a bullish counterattack candle, followed just two sessions later by a positive engulfing candle.

From Barron's

Related Words

• reprisal
• retribution
• revenge