counterclockwise

adverb

coun·​ter·​clock·​wise ˌkau̇n-tər-ˈkläk-ˌwīz 

: in a direction opposite to that in which the hands of a clock rotate as viewed from in front

counterclockwise adjective

Examples of counterclockwise in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

While one set of dancers move clockwise, another dances counterclockwise, resulting in a moving pattern of vibrant colors. —Greta Cross, USA Today, 2 May 2025

Its hand moves counterclockwise around the dial once every 24 seconds, whether the time is suspended or not, to remind you that the watch is still working. —Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 1 Apr. 2025

Zoom out: The vortex is an area of low pressure with winds swirling counterclockwise around it . —Andrew Freedman, Axios, 15 Feb. 2025

Zoom out: The vortex is an area of low pressure that is a typical feature of the Northern Hemisphere's winter season, with winds swirling around it counterclockwise. —Andrew Freedman, Axios, 13 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1888, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for counterclockwise

• anticlockwise

Kids Definition

counterclockwise

adverb

coun·​ter·​clock·​wise ˌkau̇nt-ər-ˈkläk-ˌwīz 

: in a direction opposite to that in which the hands of a clock rotate

counterclockwise adjective