Definition

A warning or danger that is given as a reply to a previous warning or danger from someone else.

Example

The country issued a counterthreat after the opposing nation declared war.

Conversation

Did you hear about the argument between those two teams?

Yeah, I heard it got pretty heated with some serious counterthreats going back and forth.

It's crazy how competitive they are, right?

Absolutely! It makes the games so much more intense.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Counterthreat → It is formed from "counter-" (meaning against) and "threat" (from Old English *þreat*, meaning a threat or danger). The word "counterthreat" means a threat made in response to another threat, indicating opposition to danger.

Memory Tip

Think of 'counter-' meaning against, and 'threat' referring to danger. This helps you remember that a counterthreat is a response to a danger.

Visually Confused Words