countermand

[ verb koun-ter-mand, -mahnd, koun-ter-mand, -mahnd; noun koun-ter-mand, -mahnd ]

verb (used with object)

1. to revoke or cancel (a command, order, etc.).

   Synonyms: recall, overrule, abrogate, rescind

2. to recall or stop by a contrary order.

noun

1. a command, order, etc., revoking a previous one.

countermand

verb

1. to revoke or cancel (a command, order, etc)
2. to order (forces, etc) to return or retreat; recall

noun

1. a command revoking another

Other Words From

• counter·manda·ble adjective
• uncoun·ter·manda·ble adjective
• uncoun·ter·manded adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of countermand¹

1375–1425; late Middle English countermaunden < Anglo-French countermander < Middle French contremander, equivalent to contre- counter- + mander to command < Latin mandāre; mandate

Word History and Origins

Origin of countermand¹

C15: from Old French contremander, from contre- counter- + mander to command, from Latin mandāre; see mandate

Example Sentences

It was too late to countermand the motor, which put up several miles away.

From Project Gutenberg

I will countermand the order for an immediate attack; that will give me time to arrange.

From Project Gutenberg

Then he had to be told how it was, and he hurried back into the house to countermand the order for the physician.

From Project Gutenberg

Unless something is done about it shall countermand religious services.

From Project Gutenberg

She decided in the absence of both to indulge in a rest, and sent Peter to countermand the carriage.

From Project Gutenberg