counterattack

Definitions

An attack made in response to an enemy's attack.

To launch an offensive maneuver against an opponent who has just attacked.

Examples

The army launched a swift counterattack to regain the territory they had lost earlier that morning.

After absorbing the initial wave of criticism, the politician prepared a sharp counterattack to defend her policies.

Synonyms

retaliation reprisal riposte return fire counteroffensive revenge counterstrike

Antonyms

retreat surrender capitulation submission withdrawal yielding concession