I. ˈkau̇ntə(r)+ noun
Etymology: counter- + claim (n.)
: an opposing claim ; especially : a law claim of matter constituting a distinct cause of action made by a defendant in an action as an offset to a claim made on him and distinct from his defense, being in effect a distinct action that is sometimes allowed to be brought in order to reduce amount and cost of litigation
II. | ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷+ verb
Etymology: counter- + claim (v.)
intransitive verb
: to enter or plead a counterclaim
transitive verb
: to ask in a counterclaim