counterclockwise

[koun-ter-klok-wahyz]

adjective

1. in a direction opposite to that of the normal rotation of the hands of a clock; not clockwise.

counterclockwise

/ ˌkaʊntəˈklɒkˌwaɪz /

adverb

1. Also called (in Britain and certain other countries): anticlockwise. in the opposite direction to the rotation of the hands of a clock

Word History and Origins

Origin of counterclockwise¹

First recorded in 1885–90; counter- + clockwise

Example Sentences

A clockwise high-pressure system was parked over Northern California and the Great Basin as a counterclockwise low-pressure system hovered over Arizona.

From Los Angeles Times

The dance opens with Abraham in a running solo, winding around the stage in counterclockwise circles.

From New York Times

The animation below gives a sense of the storm’s motion, spinning counterclockwise and forming a classic cyclone as a jet of moisture flows from it over the West Coast.

From Los Angeles Times

In the new image, however, the brightest part of a ring surrounding the black hole has shifted counterclockwise by about 30°.

From Science Magazine

He heard the creak of the platform turning with the weight of the voladores as the rope unspooled counterclockwise, and the music of the drum and flute.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• revolving