countercurrent

[ koun-ter-kur-uhnt ]

noun

1. a current running in an opposite direction to another current.
2. a movement, opinion, mood, etc., contrary to the prevailing one.

countercurrent

/ koun′tər-kûr′ənt /

1. A current that flows in an opposite direction to the flow of another current.

Other Words From

• counter·current·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of countercurrent¹

First recorded in 1675–85; counter- + current

Example Sentences

These lectures get the job done, but, along with frequent detours into back story, sometimes feel like a frustrating countercurrent to the momentum of the book’s present, ongoing plot.

From New York Times

This countercurrent of the movement is focused on exalting American militarism and patriotism, and opposing communism, especially the Chinese Communist party.

From The Guardian

“We face an external environment with even more headwinds and countercurrents.”

From New York Times

There’s always been a countercurrent of people yearning to get back to basics.

From Washington Times

McPhee writes admiringly of the Corps’ grit, determination, even genius, but running through the essay is a strong countercurrent.

From The New Yorker