counterpunch

[ koun-ter-puhnch ]

noun

1. counterblow.

counterpunch

/ ˈkaʊntəˌpʌntʃ /

verb

1. to punch an attacking opponent; return an attack

noun

1. a return punch

Word History and Origins

Origin of counterpunch¹

First recorded in 1675–85; counter- + punch ¹

Example Sentences

Long-term resistance to Saban’s dominance is futile, but occasional counterpunches can be lots of fun.

From FiveThirtyEight

“Ordinarily, you see punch-counterpunch-punch,” as the attacked party tries to fend off the intruder, the former official said.

From The Daily Beast

The book is a counterpunch to the volumes of Oprah hagiography the publishing business has churned out over the years.

From The Daily Beast