I. ˈkau̇ntə(r)ˌmand, -ˌmaa(ə)nd, -ˌmȧnd, ˌ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ˈ ̷ ̷ transitive verb
( -ed/-ing/-s )
Etymology: Middle English countermaunden, from Middle French contremander, from contre- counter- + mander to command, from Latin mandare — more at mandate
1. : to revoke (a former command) : cancel or rescind (an order) by giving a contrary order
countermand an order for goods
2. : to recall or order back by a superseding contrary order
countermand reinforcements
3. : to stop or prohibit by revoking an order or issuing a contrary order
countermand a payment
4. obsolete
a. : to oppose or go counter to a command of
b. : frustrate , counteract
II. noun
( -s )
Etymology: part translation of Middle French contremand, from contremander
: a contrary order : revocation of an order or command ; specifically : a legal revoking order or act
halting and retreating according to the countermand of the first orders