coun·ter·force I. \“+ˌ-\noun Etymology:counter- + force : a force, power, activity, or trend that opposes or counters another II. \ˈ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ ¦ ̷ ̷ \adjective Etymology:counter- + force (I) : of, relating to, or being an attack directed against enemy military targets rather than civilian targets < counterforce weapons > < a counterforce strategy >