Definition

A petition that is created to oppose or respond to another petition.

Example

The community submitted a counterpetition to challenge the original proposal.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new petition to save the park?

Yeah, I saw that! But I think a counterpetition might pop up soon.

Really? What are they opposing it for?

Some people want to turn it into a shopping center, which is crazy!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Counterpetition is formed from "counter-" (meaning against) and "petition" (from Latin "petitio", meaning a request or appeal). The word refers to a request made in opposition to another request, typically in a legal context.

Memory Tip

Think of making a request that is 'against' another request — 'counter-' means against, and 'petition' means a request.

Visually Confused Words