counterterrorism

noun

coun·​ter·​ter·​ror·​ism ˌkau̇n-tər-ˈter-ər-ˌi-zəm 

variants or counter-terrorism

: measures designed to combat or prevent terrorism

an expert in counterterrorism

—often used before another noun

a local counterterrorism council

new counter-terrorism policies/measures

Examples of counterterrorism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

An Israeli military official said such violence by Israelis diverts the defense force’s attention from its primary mission of defense and counterterrorism in a complex environment. — Reuters, NBC news, 27 July 2026

As such, transatlantic counterterrorism cooperation could be in for turbulent times. — Jason M. Blazakis, The Conversation, 22 July 2026

British counterterrorism police took over the investigation into Widdecombe’s killing on July 13, after officers initially stated there was no information to suggest her death was an act of terrorism. — Sana Noor Haq, CNN Money, 21 July 2026

Continue reading … 'IMMEDIATELY' — Former counterterrorism chief who quit over Iran war urges US withdrawal from region. — FOXNews.com, 20 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1864, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for counterterrorism

• absolutism
• adventurism
• aestheticism
• africanism
• agnosticism
• alcoholism
• anachronism
• anglicanism
• antagonism
• arianism
• asceticism
• astigmatism