I. ˈkau̇ntə(r)+ˌ- noun
Etymology: counter- + brace
: a brace counteracting the strain of another brace:
a. : the brace of the fore-topsail on the leeward side of a ship
b. : counter V 4c
II. | ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷+ verb
Etymology: counter- + brace
: to brace in opposite directions
counterbrace a ship's yards
also : to brace so that opposite stresses are resisted