WordGarden.iocounter-terror
Pronunciation
UK
US
Meanings
Adjective
designed to prevent or respond to terrorism
Beyond the definition
You will usually see counter-terror used like a label in front of another noun: counter-terror police, counter-terror unit, counter-terror measures. It means “against terrorism” or “meant to stop terrorist attacks.”
In practice, counter-terror work is about reducing the chance of an attack and limiting harm if one happens. That can include collecting information, watching for warning signs, protecting public places and events, and stepping in to stop a plan before it is carried out. The phrase often shows up in news reports, government announcements, and discussions of security.
Counter-terror is a shortened form of counter-terrorism, and it describes actions, policies, units, or operations aimed at preventing, disrupting, or responding to terrorism. It is most common as an adjective (a modifier) before a noun: counter-terror operations, counter-terror strategy, counter-terror funding.
The term covers a wide range of work, from everyday security planning to high-risk operations. Depending on the context, it can include:
- Prevention and disruption: identifying threats early, tracking suspects, and stopping attacks before they happen.
- Protection: strengthening security at airports, public events, borders, and critical infrastructure.
- Response and investigation: dealing with an incident, gathering evidence, and arresting or prosecuting those responsible.
- Coordination: sharing information across agencies and sometimes across countries.
You may also see different spellings, especially in headlines and official names: counterterror, counter-terror, and counterterrorism are closely related. The core idea stays the same: organized efforts to oppose terrorism and keep the public safe.
Examples
- 1
Police response
Counter-terror police were sent to the airport after the warning call.
- Grammar
counter-terror is usually used before another noun, such as police, unit, or laws
- 2
Security unit
She spent most of her career in a counter-terror unit.
- 3
Government powers
The government faced criticism over its new counter-terror powers.
See also
Similar
- anti-terror
- anti-terrorist
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- counter-terror police
- counter-terror operation
- counter-terror unit
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- counter-terror