figurative. To avail or prevail against; to have force or be of effect against; to counterbalance.

transitive. To blunt, take off the edge of.

transitive. To work against or in opposition to; to oppose by contrary operations; to counteract, frustrate.

To apply an antidote to, counteract (a poison, etc.). Also fig.

To hinder or defeat by contrary action; to neutralize the action or effect of. Said of forces, influences, etc.