counterreformation

[ koun-ter-ref-er-mey-shuhn ]

noun

1. a reformation opposed to or counteracting a previous reformation.

Word History and Origins

Origin of counterreformation¹

1830–40; counter- + reformation, as translation of German Gegenreformation

Example Sentences

He chose to join the Jesuits because the order—founded as the Catholic Church launched th­e ­counterreformation—was at “the front lines of the Church, grounded in obedience and discipline.”

From Time