counterpunch

plural counterpunches · alternative counter-punch

1. A punch delivered in response to a previous punch by somebody else, such as an opponent in a boxing match: a return blow, a retaliatory blow.

   Near-synonyms: counterattack, counterstrike

   Synonyms: counterblow, counterattack, counterstrike

2. historicalmediaA punch used in the cutting of other punches, often used to create the negative space in or around a glyph.

present singular third person counterpunches · participle present counterpunching · participle past counterpunched · past counterpunched · alternative counter-punch

1. boxingTo deliver a punch designed to exploit an opponent's momentary defensive weakness caused by a punch thrown by the opponent.
2. To deliver a competitive response to an opponent designed to exploit a weakness created by the opponent's offensive efforts.

   She stands just a little over 5-foot-6, but her two-handed ground strokes off both wings, inspired by the four-time Australian Open champion Monica Seles, allow her to create sharp angles and counterpunching power.

   2009 January 25, Christopher Clarey, “Top-Seeded Jankovic Falls Without a Fight”, in New York Times