counterclockwise
Meaning
In the opposite direction to the way the hands of a clock move.
Moving or situated in a direction opposite to the way the hands of a clock move.
Structure
Usage
To open the jar, turn the lid counterclockwise.
The dancers moved in a counterclockwise circle around the stage.
Please rotate the knob counterclockwise to decrease the volume.
Etymology
The word is a modern English compound, formed in the 19th century to describe direction. It logically builds from the concept of a clock's hands, whose standard motion (clockwise) was established with the mechanical clock. The prefix 'counter-' directly opposes this standard direction. The suffix '-wise' solidifies it as an adverb of manner. Thus, the term's literal logic is "in the manner opposite to a clock's hands," providing a precise, universally understood spatial reference.
Analysis
- counter: From Anglo-French/Latin contra (against, opposite). A prefix indicating opposition or contrary direction. - clock: From Middle Dutch clocke (bell, clock). The noun referring to the timekeeping device. - wise: From Old English -wīse (manner, way). A suffix forming adverbs of manner.