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 • Mar. 31, 2026

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 • Feb. 9, 2026

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

From Los Angeles Times • May 29, 2025

Either way, deterrence theory calls for a swift counterattack against the ocean.

From Slate • May 8, 2025

According to one source, he also pivoted north in time to repulse a Seleucid counterattack against Egypt.

From "Circumference" by Nicholas Nicastro

Related Words

• reprisal
• retribution
• revenge