counterwork

[koun-ter-wurk, koun-ter-wurk, koun-ter-wurk]

noun

1. work or action to oppose some other work or action.

verb (used without object)

1. to work in opposition.

verb (used with object)

1. to work in opposition to; hinder or frustrate.

counterwork

/ ˈkaʊntəˌwɜːk /

noun

1. work done in opposition to other work

2. defensive fortifications put up against attack

Other Word Forms

• counterworker noun
• counter-worker noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of counterwork¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; counter- + work

Example Sentences

His case, he feared, was too sure to prove a sorrowful one, for he knew not how to counterwork their malevolence.

From Project Gutenberg

At first he will be repeatedly putting more force on one hand than on another, and will have to rectify his course by counterwork with the neglected hand.

From Project Gutenberg

Counterwork for the Abdominal Muscles 224g.

From Project Gutenberg

How vehemently they counterwork each other!

From Project Gutenberg

Two reigns which never have ceased and never can cease to counterwork each other, the reign of the Word and the reign of the Sword.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• cancel out 
• correct 
• counterbalance 
• halt 
• negate 
• neutralize 
• offset 
• prevent 
• rectify 
• redress 
• resist 
• thwart