countermarch

[ noun koun-ter-mahrch; verb koun-ter-mahrch, koun-ter-mahrch ]

noun

1. a march back over the same ground.
2. a complete reversal of conduct or measures.

verb (used without object)

1. to execute a countermarch.

verb (used with object)

1. to cause to countermarch.

countermarch

/ ˈkaʊntəˌmɑːtʃ /

verb

1. military
   1. to march or cause to march back along the same route
   2. to change the order of soldiers during a march

noun

1. the act or instance of countermarching
2. a reversal of method, conduct, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of countermarch¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; counter- + march ¹

Example Sentences

The delay had been so great that Beauregard now advised a countermarch back to Corinth.

From Project Gutenberg

As soon as the argument in hand had been made, both would countermarch, and the listener would now become the speaker.

From Project Gutenberg

I am afraid the Confederates will by a rapid countermarch fall upon Pope with overwhelming force.

From Project Gutenberg

No one saw the minutemen march and countermarch, and no one could hear their feet in the soft grass.

From Project Gutenberg

And yet, at every march and countermarch in the drill of duty, he was aware of her.

From Project Gutenberg