Countermand: meaning, definitions and examples

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countermand

 

[ ˌkaʊntərˈmænd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

command reversal

To countermand means to revoke or cancel a command or order that has previously been issued. It often implies the authority to override an earlier directive, thus changing or nullifying its effect.

Synonyms

annul, overrule, rescind, revoke

Examples of usage

  • The general decided to countermand the earlier orders due to new intelligence.
  • She had to countermand her previous announcement when more information became available.
  • The CEO countermanded the decision made by her subordinates after reviewing the implications.

Translations

Translations of the word "countermand" in other languages:

🇵🇹 revogar

🇮🇳 वापस लेना

🇩🇪 widerrufen

🇮🇩 membatalkan

🇺🇦 скасувати

🇵🇱 cofnąć

🇯🇵 取り消す

🇫🇷 révoquer

🇪🇸 revocar

🇹🇷 iptal etmek

🇰🇷 철회하다

🇸🇦 إلغاء

🇨🇿 zrušit

🇸🇰 zrušiť

🇨🇳 撤销

🇸🇮 preklicati

🇮🇸 aftaka

🇰🇿 жою

🇬🇪 გაუქმება

🇦🇿 lüzumsuz saymaq

🇲🇽 revocar

Etymology

The term 'countermand' originates from the late Middle English period, derived from the Latin root 'mandare' meaning 'to order' or 'to entrust.' The prefix 'counter-' is used to denote opposition or contrast. Thus, 'countermand' literally translates to 'order against.' The concept has been used primarily in legal and military contexts, emphasizing the authority to override prior commands. It reflects the hierarchical structures often found in organizations where orders can shift based on new information or directives from higher authorities. Over time, the usage of 'countermand' has expanded beyond these contexts to include situations where decisions or instructions are retracted or negated in various organizational and administrative settings.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,836 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.