I. ˈkau̇ntər+ noun
Etymology: counter- + attack
1. : an attack against an enemy attacking force usually with limited tactical objectives (as to regain a key position) — compare counteroffensive
2. : an aggressive action in defense : an attack on one attacking
a counterattack on his detractors
II. | ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷+
intransitive verb
: to make a counterattack : attack in reprisal or retaliation
the defenders have counterattacked with the charges that the critics themselves are fascist — Paul Woodring
transitive verb
: to make a counterattack against