[1755–65; counter- + attraction]This word is first recorded in the period 1755–65. Other words that entered Englishat around the same time include: avalanche, baroque, capitalize, caucus, outfitcounter- is a combining form with the meanings “against,” “contrary,” “opposite,” “in oppositionor response to” (countermand); “complementary,” “in reciprocation,” “corresponding,” “parallel” (counterfoil; counterbalance); “substitute,” “duplicate” (counterfeit)