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counter-clockwise

Counter-clockwise is the standard American English term for anticlockwise — rotating or moving in the direction opposite to the hands of a clock when viewed from the front.

ˈkaʊntɚkləˌfoʊst44 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
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#1·Apr 28, 2026

Counter-clockwise is the standard American English term for anticlockwise — rotating or moving in the direction opposite to the hands of a clock when viewed from the front. The British equivalent is 'anticlockwise.' Both terms describe the same direction; the difference is purely regional preference in vocabulary. The hyphenated form 'counter-clockwise' is standard in American usage, though the unhyphenated 'counterclockwise' is also common. No slang dimension; standard directional vocabulary.

Turn the valve counter-clockwise to release the pressure before removing the cap.
Origin: 'Counter-' (against, opposite to) + 'clockwise' (in the direction of clock hands); American English preference over the British 'anticlockwise.' Editorial expansion authored on Slangora.
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#2·Apr 27, 2026

(US) Counterclockwise; anticlockwise.

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