countermeasure

noun

coun·​ter·​mea·​sure ˈkau̇n-tər-ˌme-zhər 

-ˌmā-

: an action or device designed to negate or offset another

The most well-known countermeasure by a physician is a malicious-persecution suit against the lawyer who sued him and failed to prove a case.

—William J. Curran

The Germans had developed a tricky magnetic mine, but the British had developed a countermeasure for this even before the mine was used.

—Bernard Brodie and Fawn M. Brodie

especially : electronic countermeasure

Examples of countermeasure in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

As underwater threats become more complex, modular unmanned vehicles such as Lionfish are expected to play an increasingly prominent role in extending the Navy’s undersea surveillance, reconnaissance, and mine-countermeasure capabilities. — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 7 July 2026

The company makes radar and electronic warfare systems, as well as torpedo defense countermeasures. — Lim Hui Jie, CNBC, 6 July 2026

While the flagship departs, French mine countermeasure and escort vessels will remain in the region. — Peter Suciu, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026

Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said Monday that Japan would take necessary countermeasures after thoroughly assessing the curbs and their impact. — ABC News, 29 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing countermeasure

• counter-countermeasure
• electronic countermeasure

Rhymes for countermeasure

• displeasure
• leisure
• measure
• pleasure
• treasure

Kids Definition

countermeasure

noun

coun·​ter·​mea·​sure ˈkau̇nt-ər-ˌmezh-ər 

-ˌmāzh-

: an action or device designed to counteract another