counterplot

American  

[koun-ter-plot, koun-ter-plot] / ˈkaʊn tərˌplɒt, ˌkaʊn tərˈplɒt /

noun

1. a plot directed against another plot.

2. Literature.  a secondary theme in a play or other literary work, used as a contrast to or variation of the main theme.

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verb (used without object)

counterplotted, counterplotting

1. to devise a counterplot.

verb (used with object)

counterplotted, counterplotting

1. to plot against (a plot or plotter).

counterplot British  

/ ˈkaʊntəˌplɒt /

noun

1. a plot designed to frustrate another plot

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verb

1. (tr) to oppose with a counterplot

2. (intr) to devise or carry out a counterplot

Etymology

Origin of counterplot

First recorded in 1590–1600; counter- + plot

Example Sentences

He was aided by his brother Stephen White, an author of crime fiction, in shaping the narrative, and the book sustains momentum through plots, counterplots and diversions.

From Los Angeles Times

A secret counterplot to the ensuing “complete chaos” is uncovered by British communications-satellite techy Martin Hepton after a U.S. space shuttle crashes and burns.

From Washington Post

It’s an absurd assignment, of course, but no different from other plots and counterplots of the era.

From Washington Post

You may find it difficult to sort out all the rivalries and counterplots festering among these women.

From New York Times

On the page, at least, it finds its author awkwardly trying to shoehorn his fabled sense of a melting American identity into the intricate plots and counterplots of the genre known as noir.

From New York Times

Related Words

• plot
• scheme
• sedition
• treason