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Counterspy: meaning, definitions and examples

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counterspy

 

[ˈkaʊntərˌspaɪ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

espionage role

A counterspy is a person who works to detect and prevent espionage activities conducted by spies. They are typically employed by government agencies or private organizations to safeguard sensitive information. Counterspies may also gather intelligence on foreign spies and their activities. Their work is crucial in maintaining national security and protecting confidential data.

Synonyms

covert agent, intelligence officer, security operative, spy catcher.

Examples of usage

  • The counterspy was able to thwart several assassination attempts.
  • She worked with the counterspy team to uncover the infiltrators.
  • His role as a counterspy required him to be highly alert at all times.
  • Counterspies often operate undercover to gather intelligence.
  • The agency hired a counterspy to monitor foreign intelligence operations.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'counterspy' comes from combining 'counter,' meaning against, and 'spy,' a person who secretly observes or gathers information.
  • The term first appeared around the early 20th century as espionage became more common.
  • Similar words exist in other languages, such as 'contre-espion' in French, reflecting international espionage themes.

History

  • During World War II, counterspies were crucial in thwarting enemy plans by intercepting their spies and misinformation.
  • The United States created the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) in WWII, which included counterspies helping to gather intelligence and prevent enemy operations.
  • Famous counterspies like Sir William Stephenson played key roles in turning the tide against Axis powers through covert operations.

Pop Culture

  • Movies like 'Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy' highlight the complex world of espionage and counter-espionage.
  • Video games like 'Metal Gear Solid' often delve into themes of counterspying, showcasing the tension between different intelligence agencies.
  • Spy novels often portray counterspies as key figures in uncovering plots, fueling the genre's popularity with thrilling narratives.

Psychology

  • Counterspies often rely on psychological tactics, using deception and manipulation to unveil enemy secrets.
  • Understanding psychological profiles of spies helps counterspies anticipate enemy moves and motives.
  • Surveillance and observational skills play a vital role in a counterspy's ability to detect hidden threats.

Literature

  • Literary works like John le Carré's books frequently revolve around counterspies, depicting the moral complexities of espionage.
  • Shakespeare’s plays often include themes of betrayal and observation, resonating with the essence of counterespionage.
  • Modern thrillers explore the lives of counterspies, illustrating their struggles with trust and secrecy amidst dangerous assignments.

Translations

Translations of the word "counterspy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 contraespionagem

🇮🇳 गुप्तचर प्रतिरोधक

🇩🇪 Gegen-Spionage

🇮🇩 kontra intelijen

🇺🇦 контррозвідка

🇵🇱 kontrwywiad

🇯🇵 対スパイ活動

🇫🇷 contre-espionnage

🇪🇸 contraespionaje

🇹🇷 karşı casusluk

🇰🇷 첩보 방지

🇸🇦 مكافحة التجسس

🇨🇿 protišpionáž

🇸🇰 protipodviedanie

🇨🇳 反间谍活动

🇸🇮 protiobveščevalna dejavnost

🇮🇸 gegnir njósnum

🇰🇿 контрбарлау

🇬🇪 წინააღმდეგობური ჯაშუშობა

🇦🇿 qarşı kəşfiyyat

🇲🇽 contraespionaje

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #42,532, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.