1. A punch thrown in response to an opponent's punch, especially in boxing.
Usage: plural form; commonly used in boxing and combat sports
2. A quick, effective response or retaliation to an attack or criticism.
Usage: figurative use

1. To throw a punch in response to an opponent's punch; to respond with a counter-attack.
Usage: third-person singular present or plural present

Examples

• The boxer landed several counterpunches after dodging his opponent's jabs.
• She counterpunches with wit whenever someone tries to insult her.
• His strategy relies on counterpunches rather than aggressive first strikes.
• The fighter counterpunches effectively, waiting for openings in the opponent's defense.
• The team's counterpunches in the debate were sharp and well-timed.
• He threw a series of counterpunches that turned the fight around.
• She counterpunches every criticism with facts and evidence.