A current flowing in the opposite direction to another current; a contrasting trend or flow that opposes the main direction.
From counter- (opposite) plus courant (from French courant meaning 'current' or 'flowing,' from Latin currere 'to run'). A fluid dynamics and metaphorical term.
Ocean countercurrents can actually work against the main flow—ships use knowledge of these hidden opposite currents to navigate faster and save fuel!
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