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

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

Then we decide whether to dodge, parry, or counterattack.

From Literature

Dilrosun doubled the lead with his second MLS goal on a counterattack five minutes later.

From Los Angeles Times

They have come to understand that a full-frontal counterattack is likely to bear fruit.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• reprisal
• retribution
• revenge