counterattack

/ˌkaʊntərəˈtæk/

Other forms: counterattacks; counterattacked; counterattacking

Definitions of counterattack

1. noun

   an attack by a defending force against an attacking enemy force in order to regain lost ground or cut off enemy advance units etc.
   synonyms: countermove

   types:

   riposte

   (fencing) a counterattack made immediately after successfully parrying the opponents lunge

   type of:

   attack, onrush, onset, onslaught

   (military) an offensive against an enemy (using weapons)
2. noun

   (chess) an attack that is intended to counter the opponent's advantage in another part of the board
   synonyms: counterplay

   type of:

   attack

   an offensive move in a sport or game
3. verb

   make a counterattack
   synonyms: counterstrike

   type of:

   assail, attack

   launch an attack or assault on; begin hostilities or start warfare with