counterforce

American  

[koun-ter-fawrs, -fohrs] / ˈkaʊn tərˌfɔrs, -ˌfoʊrs /

noun

1. a contrary or opposing force, tendency, etc.

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Etymology

Origin of counterforce

First recorded in 1600–10; counter- + force

Example Sentences

Two smaller parties joined forces last month to form a new counterforce called the "Centrist Reform Alliance".

From Barron's • Feb. 6, 2026

It’s not just the money, but the reach: Gorman has galvanized a growing counterforce against speech restrictions.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 2, 2024

The ministry is seeking counterforce capabilities as Russia's invasion to Ukraine changed the global security environment and North Korea's series of missile launches and China's military movements threaten Japan, the report showed.

From Reuters • Nov. 3, 2022

Now the counterforce was here, like a prophecy fulfilled, and the Free Staters understood their role perfectly.

From The Verge • Aug. 2, 2021

The nail acts as a counterforce to the fingertip providing even more sensory input when an object is touched.

From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2015