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Definition of counterattack

counterattack

/ˈkaʊn.tɚ.əˌtæk/
coun · ter · at · tack
Plural:counterattacks
•
Past Simple:counterattacked
•
Past Participle:counterattacked
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Present Participle:counterattacking
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counterattack Lexical Profile

counterattack Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

An attack, criticism, or offensive play made in response to an initial attack or challenge by an opponent.

Example

"The visiting soccer team scored two quick goals on the counterattack in the second half."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• verb

1

To attack or take offensive action in response to an attack, criticism, or play by an opponent.

Example

"During the championship chess match, the grandmaster waited patiently before choosing the exact moment to counterattack."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

counteractive
counterargue
counterargument
counterattack
counterattacker
counterbalance
counterbid

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 19th century from French 'contre-attaque', combining the prefix 'counter-' (from Latin 'contra', meaning 'against') with 'attack'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Counterattack. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/counterattack
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